This week’s theme from Debbie for One Word Sunday is BELOW
Looking up at the entrance to one of our monastic Round Towers. The doorway would have been accessed by some sort of removable stairs. Almost unique to Ireland, it’s thought the towers might have numbered about 120. Many are now in ruins but about 18-20 are are still in great condition. This one can be found in Killala, Co. mayo.
Link to One Word Sunday at Debbie’s here
How interesting – I had never heard of these towers!
I’d never realised that they were almost exclusively Irish – although once I thought about it, I’d never seen one anywhere else.
I’ve just looked Round Towers up on Wikipedia and am surprised how much there was to read. Fascinating structures, aren’t they? Although I’ve seen some, my interest was never piqued enough to research them, now I’ve got a whole new field to enquire about when I’m next in Ireland.
They are interesting – of course we were all raised on the story that they were built as a defense against the Vikings. They might have offered some security but were primarily bell towers and power symbols probably…
Interesting towers !
They are indeed – and so lovely to spot in the landscape…
I thought this was so interesting when we saw it in the Wicklow’s. Wasn’t quite sure how they accessed it so thanks for filling in that blank. Bernie
The Wicklow tower is very impressive – and probably the best known. Such a beautiful secluded location….
I absolutely fell in love with it. So quiet. It felt like ancient world’s were still alive there.
I know – it seems to retain that aura even on the busiest of days….
Maybe because people are awe struck and are more silent than usual. I just don’t recall hearing much conversation and yet there were people about.
How cool! They certainly did need some way to get in there as the entrance is quite high.
janet
A useful place to hide the monastery’s valuables…..
The funny thing about looking up from the foot of the round tower is that, depending on the direction of the clouds, it creates the optical illusion that the tower is either falling on us or falling in front of us.
I always feel as though it’s falling away from me….
I hadn’t heard of them either. I must try to visit them
Funny I assumed everyone knew about them – we take them pretty much for granted….Well worth a visit some time