Carrickmacross

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Carrickmacross is a town in County Monaghan, Ireland. It had a population of 5,066 (including rural area) at the 2006 census. The town won the prestigious European Entente Florale Silver Medal Award, It is a pretty market town which developed around a Castle built by the Earl of Essex in 1630. The Convent of the St. Louis Nuns now stands on the original castle site.

The Nuns were largely responsible for the revival of lace-making skills in the region and the Carrickmacross Lace Co-operative has been instrumental in keeping the tradition alive today. This lace may be purchased at The Gallery Centre where demonstrations of this skill can be given by prior request.

One of the most imposing buildings in the town is the Roman Catholic Church which was completed in 1866. Of particular significance in the church are the ten beautiful stained-glass windows which were designed by the renowned artist Harry Clarke in 1925.

Other buildings of note include the Courthouse and the historic Magheross Church.

Famous People from the Carrickmacross Area include Poet Patrick Kavanagh, from Fr. Ted Ardal O'Hanlon, Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil Dr. Rory O'Hanlon, writer Denise Sewell, RTÉ Weatherman Gerry Murphy, acclaimed playwright and actor Gerry McBride and RTE comedian Oliver Callan.