Abbey Grounds

The Abbey Grounds in Wicklow Town is a haven of peace and tranquility and within the grounds stand the ruins of an ancient Franciscan monastery built in the mid 13th century and which is the oldest surviving settlement in the town.

Upriver

Wicklow Harbour and the view upriver from South Quay to the Stone Bridge with the Church of Ireland on the hill in the background.

Baltinglass Abbey

Baltinglass Abbey is located on the east bank of the River Slaney on the North side of Baltinglass, Co Wicklow.  It was founded in 1148 by Diarmuid McMurrough, King of Leinster and is one of the most important Cistercian abbeys of Leinster.

The Gothic arches are supported by alternate round and square pillars.

Although none of the conventional buildings survive, the abbey church remains relatively unscathed - although the tower is a 19th century addition. The church is now considered one of
the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Ireland.

The Round Tower

We're on the tourist trail today folks as we head west to beautiful Glendalough, the 'Valley of the Two Lakes' but also known as The Seven Churches, which is located in the Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Pictured above and part of the Monastic Site formed by St Kevin in the 6th century, near the Lower Lake in Glendalough, the Round Tower is almost 1,000 years old.  In medieval Ireland, round towers served as landmarks to guide pilgrims from afar, and were regarded as places of refuge in times of attack. With a door about 4 feet from the ground it was believed to be defensively secure by refuge seekers, who raised the ladder from within.






Glendalough thrived as one of Irelands great ecclesiastical foundations and schools of learning until the Normans destroyed the monastery in 1214. Below, St Kevin's Church with it's own
integrated round tower is often referred to as 'St Kevin's Kitchen'.  Now why can't those pesky tourists keep out of my shot?  What's that I hear you say?  Now how could I be a tourist?

Signs of the Times

Strolling to the end of Redcross village you will find Holy Trinity Church and it's welcoming signs.  So, maybe next Thursday! 

Avoca Village

Above, St Mary's and St Patrick's Catholic church.  Pity it was such a dull day for photographs - a picturesque village with flowers and plants adorning every house and business.