Glendalough Monastery & Avoca Mills

Glendalough (Gleann Da Loch, meaning ‘The Glen of the Two Lakes’). is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. This early Christian monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and from this developed the “Monastic City”.Set in a glaciated valley with two lakes, the monastic remains include a superb round tower, stone churches, and decorated crosses. The round tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area. The site also includes a Celtic high cross, St. Mary’s Church and St. Kevin’s Church. The remains of three stone crosses and a stone fort are also to be found between the upper and lower lakes. Most of the buildings that survive today date from the 10th through 12th centuries. Despite attacks by Vikings over the years, Glendalough thrived as one of Ireland’s great ecclesiastical foundations and schools of learning until the Normans destroyed the monastery in 1214 A.D. and the dioceses of Glendalough and Dublin were united. Close to the monastic city is the interactive center. The center features an audiovisual and has a model of the monastic site on display. You will be welcomed by a friendly and knowledgeable staff where all your questions will be answered.  Glendalough is one of the top attraction on Ireland’s Ancient East.