Clarkson’s Farm: Rosary Beads & The Irish Times
A Year in the Life: Exploring the Tranquility of Kylemore Abbey
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Kylemore Abbey, nestled on the shores of Pollacappul Lough in Connemara, Ireland, is a place of breathtaking beauty adn serene spirituality. A new RTÉ documentary, The Hills Are Alive: A Year at Kylemore Abbey, offers a glimpse into the daily lives of the Benedictine nuns who call this historic site home. but does the series fully capture the essence of life within these ancient walls? Let’s delve into what makes Kylemore Abbey so special and explore what the documentary reveals.
A History Steeped in romance and Faith
The story of Kylemore Abbey is a captivating one. Originally built in 1868 as a grand castle by Manchester textile magnate Michael Henry for his wife, Margaret, it’s a testament to Victorian romanticism. Tragically, Margaret died young, and Henry, heartbroken, commemorated her memory by building a neo-Gothic church nearby.[Image of kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine Monastery built on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, by Pollacappul Lough. Photograph: Betend A/ andia/ Global Images Group via Getty Images]
In 1920, a new chapter began when Benedictine nuns, fleeing Belgium during World War I, purchased the estate. They established a monastery and a girls’ boarding school, continuing a tradition of education and faith that lasted until 2010. Today, the abbey remains a vibrant centre of Benedictine life, welcoming visitors and offering a haven of peace.
Inside the Walls: A Day in the Life
The Hills Are Alive attempts to peel back the layers of monastic life, showcasing the routines and responsibilities of the nuns. We see them engaged in various tasks, from overseeing the production of their renowned kylemore scented candles to tending the stunning gardens. The documentary highlights the industriousness of the sisters, especially Sr. Harrington, whose pragmatic approach to new ventures - like the proposed nun-shaped chocolates – provides a touch of levity.
However,the series occasionally feels formulaic,bordering on advertorial,a consequence of Tourism Ireland’s co-funding. While showcasing the abbey’s beauty is understandable, it sometimes overshadows the more nuanced aspects of monastic life. The arrival of coach-loads of American tourists, while a reality, feels somewhat staged at times.
Silence, Contemplation, and…Snakes and Ladders?
One of the most striking aspects of Benedictine life is the emphasis on silence and contemplation. The nuns largely maintain silence throughout the week, reserving conversation for weekends or their surprisingly low-key board game nights. The documentary’s reveal of Snakes and Ladders as their game of choice – rather than something more strategic like Warhammer or Secret Hitler – is a charmingly understated moment.
This dedication to quiet reflection speaks to the core of their faith. In a world saturated with noise and distraction, the Benedictines offer a powerful example of finding calmness and meaning through inner peace.The documentary does capture this essence, though it could benefit from a more dynamic approach.
A Habit Hard to Shake?
Ultimately, The Hills Are Alive provides a gentle introduction to the world of Kylemore Abbey. It’s a visually appealing and well-intentioned documentary, but it occasionally lacks the depth and dynamism needed to truly immerse the viewer in the complexities of monastic life. It settles into a pleasant groove, much like the habits of its subjects, and while pleasant, it doesn’t quite break new ground.
Despite its shortcomings, the documentary serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of Kylemore Abbey – a place where history, faith, and natural beauty converge.
The Hills Are Alive: A year at Kylemore Abbey is on RTÉ one, 6.30pm,Sunday.