Over summer 2015 Irish Ancestors Direct are taking to the roads of southern Ireland and intend visiting heritage sites and ancient burials grounds. First Sunday in June, a beautiful sunny day, saw us in Ardfert – had a wonderful visit to Ardfert Cathedral and adjoining burial ground. Also visited Franciscan Friary which is a short walk from the village. These ancient monastic buildings, dating back to 11th century, are wonderfully maintained by the Office of Public Works. Staff very welcoming and informative. Ardfert was a very important ecclesiastical centre. A reference is made to a bishop of Ardfert in 1098 in the Annals of Inisfallen and Ardfert is mentioned as a diocese at the Synod of Kells in 1152. From a genealogical point of view the burial grounds are well worth a visit as tombs and gravestones are well maintained and staff in the Cathedral are available to assist with any queries. We highly recommend a visit to this area and we will definitely be returning.