Dublin Excursions

Dublin, Glendalough

A favourite destination for day-trips is Glendalough, which is only 30km from the city. There are usually many visitors but despite the occasional crowds that descend upon the site, visitors appreciate the spiritual mood evoked by the ruins of the monastery.

Glendalough means "valley of the two lakes" and taking a walk around the remains of the settlement reveals the stunning beauty of the lakes.

The monastic settlement was established in the 6th century by St. Kevin and for a time it was a distinguished centre for learning in Europe . St. Kevin's remains lie in the cathedral that dates back to the 9th century. The structure also contains St. Kevin's Cross which was carved in 1150.

A number of other buildings also survived from the 8th and 12th century, including the round tower which stands at 34m and has a base of 16m in circumference.

Telephone: (0404) 45325;

Website: www.heritageireland.ie

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