The black nun of Bunamarghy

A trip with noted historian Dr. Bob Curran to Ballycastle inevitably lead us to the local friary and its most famous resident, known as the Black Nun, where he eloquently tells us more about her activities. Julia McQuillan was the reclusive mystic known as "the Black Nun"who is supposed to have lived in Bunamarghy Friary. The Black Nun lived and died at this spot during the 1600's. Her last wish was to be buried near the entrance to the church so that all who entered the friary would tread on her grave as a token of her humility. Legend has it that she is buried under the noteworthy holestone cross of which Bob tells us more about.

The friary was built in the early 1500's and was occupied by the Third Order of Franciscans until roughly the mid-17th century. It is now a ruin in State care under the wing of the Environment and Heritage Department of the DoE. The Friary lies south of Ballycastle on the Cushendall Road. Apologies for the sound quality at times on the recording.

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