Mystic City
Nestled in the heart of County Wicklow, Ireland, the ancient monastic city of Glendalough (Gleann Dá Loch), is a place where history, geology, and spirituality converge to create a landscape of remarkable beauty and profound significance. Founded in the 6th Century by St. Kevin, Glendalough, which means "Valley of the Two Lakes," is a testament to Ireland's rich monastic heritage and natural splendour.
Glendalough Circa 1890 Showing numerous churches, the round tower and the two lakes
The area is of great historic significance, owing to St. Kevin, a hermit monk, establishing Glendalough around 498 AD. He sought solitude in the valley's serene environment, living in a cave known as St. Kevin's Bed, perched above the Upper Lake. His reputation for piety and miracles attracted followers, leading to the formation of a monastic settlement. Over time, Glendalough developed into a major ecclesiastical site, featuring churches, a round tower, and monastic cells. It became a renowned centre for learning and pilgrimage, surviving numerous Viking raids and playing a pivotal role in preserving Christian scholarship during the Dark Ages.
The Glendalough Hotel 1980
Geologically, Glendalough is a marvel. The valley was formed during the last Ice Age, with glaciers carving out the deep glacial valley and depositing moraine, which created the two picturesque lakes. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, dense woodlands, and cascading waterfalls. The area's granite and mica-schist bedrock, shaped by millennia of natural forces, adds to its rugged beauty. At the head of the Glendalough Valley, was the site of the galena lead mine which operated from 1825 right up to 1957. The unique geological diversity of the area not only contributes to its scenic charm, but also supports a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Glendalough's geographic beauty is breathtaking. The valley's two lakes, the Upper & Lower Lakes, are framed by steep hillsides and forested slopes, creating a tranquil & picturesque setting. Walking trails, such as the ‘Miners Road’ walk, the ‘Spinc’ (from the Irish “An Spinc”, meaning pointed hill) which overlooks the Upper Lake and the Glendalough Valley below, The ‘Green Road’ walk and ‘The Wicklow Way’. All offering different stunning vistas and access to ancient ruins scattered throughout the landscape. The area is also home to an array of wildlife, including red deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
At the heart of Glendalough's appeal is its religious heritage. The Round Tower, standing over 30 meters tall, is one of the most iconic features of the site. Built in the 10th Century, it served as a bell tower and a place of refuge during Viking attacks. The nearby cathedral, the largest of the seven churches in Glendalough, reflects the architectural prowess of early medieval Ireland. Other notable structures include St. Kevin's Church, also known as "St. Kevin's Kitchen" due to its chimney-like round tower, and the Priest's House, believed to be a repository for relics.
The current structures in Glendalough tell only a small part of its story. The Monastery in its heyday, included workshops, areas for manuscript writing and copying, guest houses, an infirmary, farm buildings and dwellings for both the monks and a large lay population. The buildings which have survived, probably date back from between the 10th and 12th Centuries.
The upper lake at Glendalough, in County Wicklow
Today, Glendalough remains a site of pilgrimage and one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations, attracting visitors from all corners of the world, with its serene beauty and historical depth. It stands as a testament to Ireland's rich monastic tradition and the enduring legacy of St. Kevin. Whether drawn by its spiritual ambiance, its historical ruins, or its natural beauty, Glendalough offers a profound and unforgettable experience for all who visit.
My affiliation with Glendalough is life long as I am blessed to be born and raised about seven miles from the site. In the meantime, you can experience the untouched natural beauty and serenity of Glendalough right on your personal wall space, with one of our Irish Landscape photographs available right here on our Irish Photo Art website.
https://irishphotoart.com/The-Wicklow-Gallery
