This ancient place has been a site of continuous Christian witness, worship and prayer for over 1300 years, since the time of St. Declan.

The present edifice dates from the year 1220. The church is in the Church of Ireland (Anglican) Diocese of Cloyne, which is part of the United Diocese of Cork, Cloyne & Ross. The building is now a National Monument of Ireland, under the care of the Government through the Youghal Urban District Council. The Collegiate Church of Saint Mary the Virgin is of enormous historical importance and perhaps the finest church building in the Island of Ireland.