1868 – Church of the Sacred Heart, Arles, Co. Laois
Replaced a church constructed in 1795, and built during the period 1865-68. Fine gothic exterior with spire on an elevated site makes Pugin & Ashlin’s church at Arless a landmark in the local landscape, finished in cut limestone which was sourced locally. The interior has some original fittings, with more modern woodwork, not always sympathetic. The interior had a gallery inserted in the 1970s. Construction was partly funded by the Grace family of nearby Gracefield. The altars, stained glass windows, communion rail were the gift of the family and supplied by Earley & Powells. The Grace Mausoleum is still standing to this day in the church graveyard.
Photograph courtesy, and copyright of Keith J. Allen.
Published March 31, 2014 | Last Updated December 9, 2024