Welcome to a remarkable chapter of our local history. Johannes Matthaeus Koelz (1895–1971) was an acclaimed German Expressionist painter whose life was defined by immense moral courage and artistic brilliance. After surviving the trenches of the Western Front, Koelz became an ardent anti-militarist, choosing to dismantle his own 24-foot anti-war triptych to save it from Nazi destruction before escaping Germany. In 1968 he discovered our little village of Curraglass. In this peaceful Irish setting, just steps from Lisnabrin House, Koelz spent quiet days amongst the community here. Johannes Matthaeus Koelz It was a huge honour to welcome Ava Farrington, Johannes' daughter, and Simon Lake (who authored the comprehensive biography, The Painter’s Hidden Masterpiece: The Story of Johannes Matthaeus Koelz) to an evening celebrating this great artist and his life. Video In the Garden, Apple Trees, Curraglass, Co. Cork Johannes Matthaeus Koelz (1895–1971) led an extraordinary life marked by profound courage, artistic brilliance, and a firm moral stand against the horrors of war. Early Life and World War I Background: Born on March 31, 1895, in Mühldorf am Inn, Bavaria, into a Catholic family. He showed great promise as an artist from an early age. The Trenches: His studies at the Munich Academy of Fine Arts were interrupted by the outbreak of World War I.He served as an infantry officer on the Western Front and was awarded the Iron Cross for bravery after rescuing a wounded soldier at Verdun in 1916. A Shift in Perspective: The brutal realities of trench warfare, alongside the tragic death of his brother in action, profoundly changed him. The decorated war hero emerged from the conflict as a committed pacifist and anti-militarist. The Masterpiece and Escape "Thou Shalt Not Kill!": After the war, Koelz worked as a police officer while continuing his art studies. Between 1930 and 1937, he secretly painted his magnum opus: a monumental, 24-foot-wide anti-war triptych titled Thou Shalt Not Kill! (Du Sollst Nicht Töten). The shocking and powerful work depicted a crucified dead German soldier wearing a gas mask, surrounded by praying soldiers and priests blessing weapons. Defying the Regime: In 1937, he faced imminent arrest for "pacifist propaganda" (and, according to historical accounts, refused an incredibly lucrative offer to paint a portrait of Adolf Hitler). To prevent his masterpiece from being destroyed by the regime, Koelz made the agonizing decision to cut the massive painting into smaller pieces at a local sawmill, distributing the fragments to trusted friends and family to hide. Exile: Now a refugee, he fled Germany with his wife Claire and their children, journeying through Austria and Prague before arriving in England in 1939. His hardships continued when he was briefly interned and shipped to Australia as an "enemy alien" in 1940, though he later returned to the UK to serve in the Pioneer Corps. Time in Curraglass, Co. Cork Following the immense turbulence of the war years and the passing of his wife Claire in 1957, Koelz sought a quieter existence. In 1968, Buying a small cottage (unseen from a newspaper advert) in the rural Irish village Curraglass Co. Cork, he divided his latter years between Shelton (Stoke-on-Trent, England) and Curraglass, County Cork, Ireland. His time in Ireland was characterised by a peaceful but highly productive return to his art. His daughter Ava, explains how welcome he felt and he made many friends in the local area. In the tranquil, rural surroundings of Curraglass, Koelz continued to actively paint and sculpt. Moving away from the monumental political statements of his past, his later years in Ireland and England were spent drawing and painting numerous portraits, still lifes, and expressive landscapes, as well as engaging in book illustration. After a life defined by displacement, political persecution, and the fragmentation of his greatest artwork, Curraglass offered Koelz a much-needed sanctuary to dedicate his final years to his craft. He passed away in Stoke-on-Trent on July 3, 1971. A Lasting Legacy Decades after his death, his daughter Ava Farrington and art curators managed to track down several surviving fragments of Thou Shalt Not Kill! scattered across Europe. Today, pieces like the "Dead Soldier" and "Boy's Praying Hands" are held at the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery in the UK, ensuring that Koelz's artistic brilliance and his message of peace endure. Articles, Books & Links Simon Lake - A curator, writer and artist with nearly thirty years’ experience in the arts and museums sector, provides extensive insight into the life and work of Johannes Matthaeus Koelz on his website and his published work - a complete account of artist Johannes Matthaeus Koelz’s incredible life and the unparalleled masterpiece which put him and his family into exile – 'The Painter’s Hidden Masterpiece' https://simonlake.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/KoelzBook https://simonlake.co.uk/product/the-painters-hidden-masterpiece "Noted painter who defied Hitler found peace here" – Sunday Independent (Jerome Reilly, Jan 2012) This is the primary Irish article detailing his time in Curraglass and his daughter Ava's efforts to restore his work. https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/books/noted-painter-who-defied-hitler-found-peace-here-26811632.html "Sketch poser from artist who snubbed Hitler" – The Guardian (Maev Kennedy, Oct 2001) Interviews his daughter, Ava Farrington (living in Cork), about discovering the lost fragments and her father's time in Ireland. https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2001/oct/06/arts.highereducation Key Biography & Art Resources "Johannes Matthaeus Koelz: Thou Shalt Not Kill! (1930-37)" – Midlands Art Papers, University of Birmingham A comprehensive academic breakdown of his life, his escape from the Nazis, and the history of the painting. https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/projects/midlands-art-papers/issue-one/johannes-matthaeus-koelz-thou-shalt-not-kill-1930-37 "Johannes Matthaeus Koelz" – German Expressionist Collection, Leicester Museums The official museum archive holding his surviving works. Includes images of the 'Dead Soldier' and 'Boy's Praying Hands' fragments. https://www.germanexpressionismleicester.org/leicesters-collection/artists-and-artworks/johannes-matthaeus-koelz/ "The Painter's Hidden Masterpiece: The Story of Johannes Matthaeus Koelz" – Art UK Details on the definitive biography book written by Simon Lake and Koelz's daughter, Ava Farrington. https://shop.artuk.org/the-painter-s-hidden-masterpiece.html "Johannes Matthaeus Koelz" – Wikipedia Entry A general timeline of his movements from Bavaria to Australia (internment) to Ireland. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johannes_Matthaeus_Koelz

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Lucretia This elegant, inviting room has a wonderful view over the cobbled courtyard, and is named after an important lady in Lisnabrin’s history. Lucretia Coppinger married Hugh Croker, a wounded soldier in the battle of Conna. Having nursed him back to health, they fell in love, married and so began the long Croker family history at Lisnabrin. The luxurious Super King Sleigh Bed and eclectic furnishings make for a unique and cosy space, coupled with an ensuite shower room. Superking Bed Bath, Face & Hot Tub Towels Selection of Bathroom products WC Work Space Power points: USB & UK/US Adaptors Fibre Broadband 100mbps Hairdryer Walk-in Shower Washbasin Courtyard Views Home

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Welcome to Your 2027 Ryder Cup Sanctuary Discover the art of effortless luxury at Lisnabrin Country House, an exclusive 300-year-old estate reserved entirely for you and your guests. We offer the pinnacle of Irish hospitality, providing a fully catered and staffed experience that includes everything you need for an unforgettable Ryder Cup week. Seamless Travel & Curated Adventures With our flexible chauffeured transport, your daily itinerary is entirely stress-free. We can provide a dedicated vehicle or arrange a helicopter transfer for those attending the tournament at Adare Manor, while our separate house vehicle whisks non-golfers away for curated local adventures and cultural day trips. Looking to play a round yourself? Take a scenic road trip or arrange a helicopter transfer to one of Ireland's world-renowned courses. Exceptional Dining & Entertainment Indulge in formal evening dining crafted by our locally celebrated private chef, tailored exactly to your tastes. Enjoy a fully stocked private bar where you can pull your own pint, or simply relax and let our dedicated team pour for you. Throughout the day, graze on a curated table kept stocked with your favourite treats. When the sun goes down, we can bring the local culture to you with traditional musicians, storytellers, or a curated whiskey tasting. Exclusive Estate Features Lisnabrin House is renowned for creating the perfect balance of elegant comfort and laid-back fun. Find your sanctuary in our elegant Formal Rooms, or turn up the excitement in the Coach House entertainment wing. Soak in the large hot tub overlooking the Bride Valley, enjoy the BBQ terrace, perhaps a games of pool or darts or gather around the woodland firepit for a night under the Irish stars with your favourite people. Let our dedicated team of housekeepers, stewards, and drivers take care of every detail. Sit back, relax, and enjoy an amazing week of spectacular golf and unforgettable moments DOWNLOAD our RYDER CUP 2027 Brochure Contact Us Would you like to know more about what we can offer for your Ryder Cup Stay? Leave your details below and we will be in touch. Choose an option Submit Thank You

Croker Named after the Croker family who lived here for nearly 250 years, the Croker Suite has some of the most spectacular views in the entire house. It is a bright sunlit romantic room with luxurious super king fourposter bed and a stunningly beautiful ensuite complete with freestanding bath overlooking the fields. These fields are laid with a crop called Miscanthus, which we harvest each year, and use as fuel for heating and hot water throughout Lisnabrin House. Something to consider whilst you soak and relax in your steaming hot bath. Superking Bed Bath, Face & Hot Tub Towels Selection of Bathroom products Roll Top Bath Handcrafted Washbasin Relaxing Space Power points: USB & UK/US Adaptors Fibre Broadband 100mbps Hairdryer In bath Shower WC Work Space Power points: USB & UK/US Adaptors Home

Drawing Room The heart of the house, take a seat by the fire and let the world settle. You might find someone with their feet up and glass in hand, maybe the competitive duo battling it out on the Backgammon Board or perhaps that long awaited catch up over a cup of tea. Traditionally this room would have been occupied by the ladies in the evening, they withdrew here after dinner whilst the men headed to the Library for port and cigars. These days however, the open log fire, comfy sofas, a sideboard full of boardgames / puzzles and backgammon table - makes the drawing room a great spot for everyone to catch up and relax. Seating for 16 Backganmmon Table Selection of Board Games & Puzzles Fibre Broadband 100mbps Open Log Fire Selection of Board Games & Puzzles Home

Book your Luxury Self Catering Country House in Co. Cork, Ireland. Lisnabrin is a large Georgian House, perfect to gather with family & friends. Accommodating 17 guests - Extensive grounds, BBQ terrace & Firepit, 10 seat hot tub. Games wing with pool table, darts & supersize TV. Fully equipped Bar. We know how hard it can be to get everyone together - so once you set the date we make sure you can sit back, relax and look forward to to a fab time away with your favourite people... Exclusive accommodation for up to 17 guests. Something for everyo ne from gracious formal rooms, fully equipped bar area, catered options, games rooms, BBQ terrace, roaring log fires, large hot-tub overlooking the paddocks, lawns & fire-pit for nights under the stars... "We fill the fridges, stock the bar and light the fires, so you can gather everyone, turn up and relax." Contact us directly for best rates, we would be delighted to hear from you to chat through making your stay a special one. La maison Lisnabrin a une longue histoire d'accueillements chaleureux qui remonte à 1720. Faites l'expérience de l'utilisation exclusive de cette propriété historique rénovée et de son domaine de 25 acres. Nous sommes ravis d'offrir à nos clients le meilleur de l'hospitalité des maisons de campagne irlandaises. Situé dans la paisible Bride Valley à North Cork, une région d'une beauté naturelle exceptionnelle. La localité est chargée d'histoire et à quelques minutes en voiture des plages locales à couper le souffle ou des spectaculaires montagnes Knockmealdown pour la randonnée et l'exploration. Lisnabrin offre un accès incroyable au fantastique Ancient East et fournit un lien facile vers la Wild Atlantic Way. Aéroport de Cork 40 minutes, aéroport de Dublin 2,5 heures, aéroport de Shannnon 1,5 heures. More Exclusive Rental Refurbished to the highest standards with all modern conveniences. Lisnabrin House accommodates up to 17 guests in six double en-suites & one family room. The team are on hand to help arrange all aspects of your stay. Just let us know what you are looking for. Home Comforts Coach House Bar Area Stout & Lager taps Events Room with Pool Table, Darts & Games Large Hot-Tub with beautiful rural views BBQ Terrace with Gas and Coal grills - all set for outdoor dining. Woodland Garden & Firepit area for nights under the stars Lawns perfect for football, croquet, tennis & games Formal reception rooms & cosy library to curl up by the fire. Relax & Enjoy T he house is rented on a self catering basis, you can then add any extras you require; Formal Dining Meals to your Fridge Order Groceries in Advance Kegs tapped & ready to pour Bubbly, Balloons and Cakes Housekeeping Service Entertainment Out & About Stunning location, with fantastic local activities for your guests. Fishing on the Blackwater Guided Treks & Trails Clay pigeon shooting Fantastic golf courses Horse trekking & beach rides Historical sight seeing tours Kayaking & Picnics Explore Lisnabrin Main Rooms Bedrooms Relax & Enjoy Book "Staying here is like living a fairy tale! Wow, so grand and beautiful and ornate but welcoming as well. Niamh was a lovely host. She has thought of everything, every necessity, but much beyond that as well. We loved hearing the history of the house and exploring all of its corners. We played many games of croquet on the lawn, games of pool and darts, spent time in the hot tub overlooking the horses, played soccer, had chess matches and enjoyed the many books to look at. She even had maps for walking or running or riding bikes and even had bikes to use. We cooked multiple meals there and had everything we needed, including so many options of dining tables, both inside and out. We are a family of 11, with three generations. It was perfect for all of us. We had places where we could all gather together and places where we could get off by ourselves for a while. Perfect for a large group. Everything both inside and out was impeccable. I can’t recommend this place highly enough!." Ruth & Family - USA - June 2025 Contact us here for a quote or further info Frequently asked questions General 01 What type of stay is Lisnabrin House? Lisnabrin House is an exclusive luxury self-catering escape, with the whole property reserved just for you and your group. You’ll have sole use of the house, so you can settle in, relax, and enjoy the space at your own pace. 02 How many people can Lisnabrin House host? Lisnabrin House can welcome up to 17 guests. You’ll have six double ensuite bedrooms and one family room, giving your group plenty of comfort and space to spread out. 03 How do you book a stay at Lisnabrin House? Booking your stay is easy... you can check live availability on our Booking page and send a request from there if your dates look right. If you’d rather chat it through, you can call or WhatsApp us on +353862280312, or email Stay@lisnabrinhouse.ie. We’ll be happy to help you plan your getaway. 04 Are pets allowed at Lisnabrin House? We’re sorry, but we can’t welcome dogs or other pets at Lisnabrin House. If you’re travelling with a pet, let us know and we can point you towards some lovely local kennels nearby.

The Crokers of Lisnabrin Lisnabrin is near the village of Curraglass, which is close to the post town of Tallow, County Waterford.Lisnabrin itself, however, is in the County of Cork. It formed part of the estate given to Sir Walter Raleigh, having originally belonged to the Desmonds. A branch of the Coppingers had, from remote times, lived at Lisnabrin, and when Sir Walter Raleigh acquired the estate, in 1586, he secured the Coppingers in the lands of Lisnabrin under a lease for 4,000 years at the rent of 4d. per acre. Raleigh stood sponsor to the son of Mr. Coppinger, the son being called Walter. Mr. Coppinger, Walter's father, was living at Lisnabrin, with his son and two daughters, at the time that Hugh Croker first came to Ireland. Hugh was a son of Thomas Croker of Trevillas, in Cornwall, second son of the 8th John Croker of Lineham, Co. Devon, and with his brothers migrated to Ireland. They were all probably soldiers. Hugh served under Essex, and it was during the retreat of the English from Limerick towards Waterford, that a battle was fought between the English and Irish, called Tallow. Essex had fought two battles after leaving Limerick, one between Adare and Askeaton, and another between Askeaton and Croom, and in both had suffered considerably. He had rested for three days at Killmallock, whence he proceeded towards Fermoy, and then as if his intention in taking this route were merely to deceive his enemies and escape their pursuit, he suddenly changed his course and hurried to Lismore, in the County of Waterford. It was not till he reached this place that the Geraldine forces ceased their pursuit, and the English army took some repose after its fatigues and sufferings. He was attacked by the rebels near Tallow, at a village called Conna, and a severe engagement fought. In this engagement Coppinger took no part, though when it was over he and his servants went down to the field of battle to assist and relieve the wounded. Amongst the wounded they discovered a young English officer - he could not have been more than twenty - who was badly hurt and had been left to his fate on the field. Mr. Coppinger immediately ordered him to be conveyed to his own house, at Lisnabrin, where he was most assiduously nursed by Mr. Coppinger's two daughters. For a long time it was doubtful whether he could be brought round, but care and good nursing effected a cure. During this critical time he, of course, saw much of Lucretia, Mr. Coppinger's youngest daughter, and a strong attachment seems to have grown up between them - so strong that Hugh Croker, for so was the officer called, could not make his departure before he sought of Mr. Coppinger the hand of his daughter in marriage. Coppinger would not hear of it. In the first place, he said he must have his eldest daughter settled in life, and in the second place he could never consent to having a Protestant son-in-law. Sorrowfully young Croker departed, but determined to bring the weight of his interest with the Government to bear upon the obdurate father. He proceeded to London, and the next year, 1600, obtained a grant of Lisnabrin as a reward of his services during the war. He forthwith returned to Ireland, and was received at Lisnabrin as a welcome visitor. Day after day passed before he could bring himself to tell his friend Coppinger that he was in reality the owner of the property of his former preserver. At length one day Coppinger remarked to him how curious it was that he alone of all his neighbours had escaped confiscastion.Croker then told him all, but added, "None need depart if you will allow me to marry your daughter Lucretia." To this arrangement Coppinger ultimately consented, and thus Hugh Croker and Lucretia Coppinger became the ancestors of the Crokers of Lisnabrin.

Brideview This cosy double room with antique fourposter bed and ensuite shower room, has fantastic views out over the horse paddocks and Bride Valley. Coupled with a shower room looking down over the cobbled courtyard, this room has all you need to kick back and relax. Double Bed Bath, Face & Hot Tub Towels Selection of Bathroom products WC Work Space Power points: USB & UK/US Adaptors Fibre Broadband 100mbps Hairdryer Walk-in Shower Washbasin Power points: USB & UK/US Adaptors Home

Discover Lisnabrin Country House Lisnabrin & The Vickers Family Step back in time to the elegant, Georgian-style world of Lisnabrin House, a place where history and family warmth converge in the heart of County Cork. Described in the memoirs of Violet Edith Potter as a "paradise" located in the picturesque valley of the Bride near Curraglass, Lisnabrin is a home of profound significance and surprising connections. Built in the classic Georgian style, Lisnabrin is a well-proportioned two-storey home featuring a grand stairway that splits into two flights, setting a tone of stately charm that guests can still admire today. In the same family for 300 years, the Vickers family were resident during the early 20th century. It was the home of Violet’s maternal aunt, Aunt Fanny, and her husband, Uncle Walter. Violet recalls it as a place of "authority combined with kindness," managed with meticulous care and Irish hospitality. The house served as a frequent refuge for Violet, including a visit in 1917 to recover from the strains of university life during the Great War. We are delighted that Violets Grandson, Chuck Whelan, got in touch when publishing a book about his grandmothers childhood - what an intriguing insight into the lives of Lisnabrin's past family, bringing history to life. Have a read - Lisnabrin is included in pages 156 - 176, but the entire book is exquisitely written - you can almost touch the past. Read Her Story Here