Calvary & Underground Crib

Calvary

Cnoc Chailvaire

Visitors to Ballintubber Abbey can take a spiritual journey within the grouds. Follow the Rosary Way and the Way of the Cross and you will arrive at the highest point on the hill, Calvary, where a trio of crosses stands at the top of the hill. It’s a place for deep reflection and thought.

Couple at Calvary Cross at the abbey

A Sacred Destination

The crosses at Calvary in Ballintubber Abbey’s gardens bring visitors to contemplate the resonance of Calvary itself. If front of the crosses you’ll find tumbling water, giving life to an area of deep spirituality.

Tumbling Water at Calvary Cross

The Passion Play at Ballintubber

Every Holy Week the sacred grounds at Ballintubber witness a poignant reenactment of the The Passion of Jesus. The tradition, dating back over 35 years, attracts pilgrims and visitors from near and far, bringing people together to witness the event.

The Abbey at Dusk
Calvary Cross at the abbey
Illustration of 3 crosses

A Growing Pilgrimage

The Passion Play at Ballintubber Abbey takes place throughout the grounds, culminating with a moving experience at the crosses at Calvary. The growing number of people attending, pays testament to the growing devotion at the sacred site and to the coming together of pilgrims expressing their faith as the celebration of Easter approaches.

Experience Ballintubber Abbey

Journey through time and faith at Ballintubber Abbey. Explore its captivating history and architecture on a guided tour, or embrace serenity on a pilgrimage walk, connecting with centuries of tradition.

The Underground Crib

Over two thousand years ago, tradition holds that our Lord was born in a humble cave. Here at the Abbey, nestled beneath the tranquil hillside, a permanent cave-crib stands as a testament to that sacred moment.

The Underground Crib

Visiting The Crib

The Crib is a place of quiet contemplation and is open for visitors year-round, but there’s something truly special about experiencing it during the Christmas season. This unique Crib is an integral part of our Rosary Way, a symbol of enduring faith, and a reminder of the profound message it carries.

A Christmas Manger
Line 1

Find Out More

Line 1

Explore Ballintubber

There is so much to see at Ballintubber Abbey, from the church itself, its architecture and art, to the grounds and sculpture and sacred spaces within the gardens. Discover one of Mayo’s most historic locations.