Kilmacduagh

This was one of those great finds.  Even in the morning fog this place looks incredible. What caught my eye first was the round tower.  As we approached I began to notice the rest of the buildings; 7 in all.  We had no idea what this place was, but have since looked it up. 

This site was probably more important in medieval times than Clonmacnoise. However, these dwellings are more remote and not visited as much today.  Fortunately for us, there was no one else around this morning.  Not even the cows seemed show any interest in us.  

The name Kilmacduagh translates to “church of Duagh’s son”. Historians are not sure of the exact date, but believe this monastic settlement was originally established in the 7th century.  Founded by Irish Saint Colman Mac Duagh.  The new diocese was established and the Bishop’s seat held for the next few hundred years.  It fell victim to multiple attacks and was finally abandoned in the 13th century.


The numerous ruins are remarkable, but the round tower, sitting at a slight angle and around 100 feet tall, is in near perfect condition.  This is said to be the tallest of the roughly 50 remaining medieval towers in Ireland.  It dates back to the 10th century. 

Over the span of the settlements’ presence, the remaining structures were built. Six different churches and one house.  The graveyard is still used today. 

PHOTO ALBUM