File:Bective Abbey, Beigthigh, Éire - 32704727838.jpg

English: This is Mainistir Bheigtí, or Bective Abbey, a medieval Cistercian Monastery located at the small hamlet of Bective in County Meath, Éire. Founded in 1147AD, the abbey was substantially enlarged and rebuilt during the 15th Century, which is the date of construction of most of the current structure. The complex has portions dating back to the 13th Century; most notably the church, and a 16th Century tower that dominates the front of the structure. The most famous part of the abbey, however, is the well-preserved and ornate remaining sections of the old Cloister, which was used as a backdrop for several scenes of the 1995 film Braveheart. After the dissolution of the monasteries under King Henry VIII, the abbey and it’s lands were confiscated by the state, and purchased by Andrew Wyse in 1552. During the 17th Century, the old abbey was heavily modified and turned into a grand manor house, which later fell into ruin and decay. The ruins of the abbey were landmarked but in private hands until 2012, when they were purchased by the Irish Government and is one of the recorded National Monuments of Ireland, with access open to the public, whom can venture around the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the old abbey.