All that remains of the abbey are the Slype and rib-vaulted Chapter House (the 15C cloister has been reconstructed using original elements discovered in 1975). The abbey’s foundation in 1139, its architecture and history are explained, as is the Cistercian way of life. Owning vast estates either side of the River Liffey, it was closely associated with the city and used as a warehouse, strongroom and meeting place for the Council of Ireland.