The red tower of the Abbey is one of the main attractions of the Irish city of cork. The tower of the Abbey dates back to the middle ages and is the oldest building in Cork. However, this is probably the only medieval building that you can see today in Cork.

The old tower is all that has survived from the red Abbey, founded by monks of the Augustinians in the late 13th – early 14th century and received its name from the reddish Sandstone used in the construction of the cloister.

Historians suggest that the Augustinians lived in the Red Abbey, at least until the Irish rebellion of 1641. Further their stay in the monastery in question, although it is likely that the Augustinians left the Abbey until the end of the 17th century. In 1690, during the siege of Cork army Villamiel under the command of John Churchill (later received the title of 1st Duke of Marlborough), the tower of the Abbey was used as an important vantage point.

In the early 18th century, the Augustinians founded a new monastery on Fishamble Lane and never returned to his old abode. On the territory of the red Abbey was being hosted sugar factory. In 1799, as a result of a strong fire a large portion of the red Abbey was severely damaged and almost beyond repair. Over time, all buildings except the tower, which was once the main bell tower of the Abbey Church, were demolished.

The red tower of the Abbey is recognized as a national monument and is administered by the City Council of Cork.