Kells Heritage Centre

Few places in Ireland have such a strong association with Ireland’s monastic past as Kells. The Kells Heritage Centre celebrates the story of the world famous Book of Kells which was brought to the town by the Columban monks who created it for safe-keeping in the 9 th century. The book is an illuminated manuscript decorated with ornate letters, illustrations and calligraphy. It is currently on display in Trinity College, Dublin and attracts around 500,000 visitors per year. One of the displays in Kells Heritage centre tell the story of how the book was created and its association with the monastic life of the area during the middles ages. Other displays in the centre focus on the famous high crosses of Kells. One of these crosses is located in the grounds of the centre for safe keeping away from the dangers of modern traffic. The centre also contains a coffee shop and gift shop and is an ideal starting point for a walking tour of the town.