Relic theft boosts number of people visiting abbey

THE theft of an ancient relic from an abbey has boosted the number of people visiting the historic site.

A gold and bronze crucifix containing what is believed to be a piece of the cross on which Jesus died was stolen from Holycross Abbey in Thurles, Co Tipperary, in October. But Fr Tom Breen said the loss of the relic had not put people off coming to the abbey, which was its home for more than 900 years.

“Visitor numbers have actually increased. Human curiosity is a wonderful thing,” said Fr Breen.