The Round Tower and Glendalough
When visiting Ireland, many tourists enjoy exploring the ancient ruins that are such a fascinating study in Celtic history…these monasteries, beehive huts, castles, and burial grounds have remained standing for thousands of years, and they have become powerful symbols of Irish and Celtic culture.
Unique design elements, featuring themes of spirituality, faith, and eternity are a focus at these hallowed sites: the mystical spirals, knot work, and crosses of the Insular Art Movement often add touches of hidden meaning to gorgeous stone work. If you’re interested in learning more about ancient ruins in Ireland and their historical significance, have a look at our quick guide to some of the best places to visit:
Glendalough, County Wicklow – A gentle valley flanked by the Wicklow Mountains provides a graceful setting for the ruins of the Glendalough monastic settlement. In 618 A.D., a monk named Kevin (known after his death as Saint Kevin) became the founder of this unique order, and he and his ilk constructed ancient churches, a “priest’s house”, a stately circular tower, and many other beautiful stone structures…
Tourists are free to explore the ruins on foot at their own chosen pace. Lakes, streams and rolling hills add to the splendor of this singular site. For an unforgettable day trip that wraps you in the mists of time, consider visiting the exceptional ruins of Glendalough on your next trip to Ireland.
Fahan Beehive Huts (Glenfahan), County Kerry – The distinctive beehive huts that dot the landscape of County Kerry are also known as Clochans, and they are believed to have been constructed during the early years of the Middle Ages.
Today, tourists enjoy visiting the little round huts, while also admiring the pretty rural landscape of this southwestern part of Ireland. Often, the local farmers will ask for a Euro or two in exchange for entrance to the field where these Fahan stone structures are found.
Tully Castle, County Fermanagh – This spectacular site is found in County Fermanagh, close to Blaney village. The stone fortress was built in 1619 by a well-to-do Scotsman whose name was John Hume. Visitors to these ruins enjoy the colorful history of this castle, which was burned down and left uninhabited after the Irish Rebellion in the 17th century.
Today, visitors tour the shell of Castle Tully and also enjoy its stunning gardens, which feature hedges trimmed into careful, geometric shapes. The castle itself rises 2 ½ stories high, and features four towers that were meant to defend the fortress from attack.
Newgrange Passage Tomb, County Meath
This megalithic landmark was built more than 5000 years ago, and it is famous for the way its long passageway glows with light from the Winter Solstice Sunrise. Today, you must enter a lottery to experience this moment of illumination; if you are lucky enough to be chosen, you can enjoy the beauty of this man-made wonder in a most extraordinary way. Of course, you will also find much to marvel at, whichever day you decide to visit Newgrange…
The huge edifice that is Newgrange covers one full acre of land, and it features a pale, white-quartz façade, as well as a series of kerbstones that are decorated with all manner of ancient and mysterious symbols.
Leigh Maher is the owner of the online Celtic jewelry store: Irish Celtic Jewels (http://www.irishcelticjewels.com/). On his site, he shares tips and information about all things Irish, including jewelry, weddings and history.