National Famine Memorial
Monument Sculptural memorial commemorating Ireland's Great Famine victims
A bronze coffin-ship sculpture near Murrisk, County Mayo, commemorating Ireland’s Great Famine; visitors combine the memorial with views of Clew Bay, nearby Croagh Patrick and local walks.
The National Famine Memorial is a public bronze sculpture located near the village of Murrisk in County Mayo, Ireland, commemorating victims of the Great Famine. The memorial is known for its striking ship-shaped form and national significance.
The site is dominated by the large sculptural work often referred to as a ‘coffin ship’ motif; visitors come to view the memorial, reflect on its symbolism and take in views across Clew Bay toward the west. The setting is open and exposed, with the sculpture placed on land near the shoreline.
The memorial was commissioned as a national monument and created by sculptor John Behan; it was unveiled in 1997. Since its installation it has served as a focal point for commemorations and educational visits about the famine.
Located at Murrisk on the western coast of Ireland, the memorial sits close to the pilgrimage mountain Croagh Patrick and the town of Westport in County Mayo.
- Unveiling: The bronze sculpture was created by John Behan and was unveiled in 1997 as the national memorial to the Great Famine.
How to Get to National Famine Memorial #
From Westport, take the N59 west toward Louisburgh; Murrisk and the memorial are a short drive (roughly 10-15 minutes) from Westport. There is roadside parking near the memorial; local buses between Westport and Louisburgh stop in the area but schedules are limited.
Tips for Visiting National Famine Memorial #
- Visit at sunrise for the sparsest crowds and to catch Croagh Patrick silhouetted behind the memorial.
- Park on the roadside near Murrisk Abbey or use the small car park at the base of Croagh Patrick and walk a short distance.
- Be respectful - many visitors treat the site as a place of memory and private mourning.
Best Time to Visit National Famine Memorial #
Any season for atmosphere: spring-summer for accessibility and autumn-winter for solitude and dramatic light.
Weather & Climate near National Famine Memorial #
National Famine Memorial's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 3°C to 18°C. Abundant rainfall (1184 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Significant rainfall (132 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the coolest month with highs of 8°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Regular rainfall (93 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 10°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 8°C. Significant rainfall (130 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 5°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (135 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (131 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
