Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower: A Monastic Site

Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower, situated just outside Milltown in County Cavan, is a site steeped in nearly 1500 years of history. Overlooking the peaceful Garfinny Lough, this ancient monastic complex includes an abbey, a monastery, and one of Ireland's few remaining intact round towers. Founded in 555 AD by St. Columba, the site provides a tranquil retreat filled with historical significance and natural beauty. The round tower, constructed of stone in the 12th century, replaced an earlier wooden structure and is the only surviving round tower in the Diocese of Kilmore. These towers, unique to Ireland, were built between the 5th and 13th centuries as places of refuge to protect valuable relics and manuscripts during attacks. The entrance to the Drumlane tower is about nine feet above ground level, a typical design feature for security. During the Middle Ages, the Drumlane estate was controlled by the O'Farrelly clan, and a medieval gravestone is said to mark a member's burial place. In 1261, the abbey was attacked and burned by the O'Rourke family. The site was suppressed during the 16th-century Reformation, with some lands granted to the O'Reilly clan. After the 1641 rebellion, the land was taken over by planters. Today, the site is under the care of the Office of Public Works. Visitors can explore the abbey ruins, the round tower, and the surrounding graveyard. The serene setting by the lake offers stunning views and a peaceful escape. Interpretive facilities are available to help visitors understand the site's rich history.