Glendalough

Glendalough, founded in the sixth century by St. Kevin, was an important monastic and pilgrimage site; today, it continues to draw pilgrims as tourists. Nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, the idyllic valley of two lakes contains a number of stone churches, a "priest's house", stonewalls, crosses, and a round tower. Large and powerful monasteries, such as this one at Glendalough, often vied with one another for political and military power. Bishops and kings were often from the same families. Glendalough's churches reflect this history: Reefert Church derives its name from the Irish "Righ Fearta" meaning the burial place of kings.

St Kevin's Kitchen and Glendalough

[Drag the mouse over the photograph (or use the right and left cursor keys) to see a panoramic view of Glendalough. (QuickTime 3 plug-in required.)]