Glendalough Monastery, County Wicklow

Glendalough monastery is situated within Wicklow Mountains National Park, the largest national park in Ireland, covering over 129,500 square kilometers.

The park is well worth a visit, boasting mountains (as the name implies), verdant forests, the Glendalough glacial lake and, of course, the Glendalough monastic site.

Nestled in the Glendalough valley and surrounded by the protective walls of the Wicklow mountains, the monastic site was founded in the early 6th century by the hermit monk, St Kevin, who sought a place for peaceful, religious reflection. The monastery ran successfully for over 900 years.

Today, pilgrims can see the ruins of the ancient monastic site scattered throughout this stunning valley, many dating back almost 1000 years. The most famous landmark is probably the round tower, standing 112 feet high with a base measuring 52 feet in circumference.

Steeped in monastic history, Glendalough remains a special place for peaceful reflection and contemplation of the profound beauty of this pristine natural landscape.

 

Photo credit: Failte Ireland

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