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Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower: A Window to Early Christian Ireland

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Discover ancient monastic history at Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower, a peaceful lakeside retreat in County Cavan's historic heartland.

Explore the evocative ruins of Drumlane Abbey, a monastic site founded in 555 AD by St. Columba in County Cavan. The site features the well-preserved round tower, the only surviving one in the Diocese of Kilmore, alongside the remains of a medieval church, offering a glimpse into Ireland's early Christian heritage.

A brief summary to Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the abbey can be uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of Garfinny Lough and the historic architecture.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Drumlane Abbey by car, head towards Belturbet in County Cavan. From Belturbet, take the R202 road for approximately 5 kilometers. Look for signs for Drumlane Abbey and turn onto the unnamed road leading to the site. Free car parking is available at the site.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Drumlane Abbey using public transport, take a bus from Cavan Town to Belturbet. Bus Éireann is the main provider of public transport in County Cavan. From Belturbet, you can take a local taxi to Drumlane Abbey for a small fee or walk approximately 5 kilometers along the R202 road to the unnamed road leading to the abbey. TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan also operates rural services in County Cavan.

Discover more about Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower

Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower, located near Milltown in County Cavan, is a site steeped in Irish history and serene beauty. Founded in 555 AD by St. Columba, the abbey was an important monastic center. Today, visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins, including a medieval church and the prominent round tower.The round tower, constructed of stone in the 12th century, replaced an earlier wooden structure and served as a refuge during attacks. Its elevated entrance, about nine feet above ground, is a typical defensive feature. The adjacent church, though largely in ruins, showcases Romanesque architectural elements. The abbey's grounds also contain a modern graveyard, creating a poignant contrast between past and present.Over the centuries, Drumlane Abbey witnessed attacks, suppression, and changes in ownership. In 1261, the O'Rourke family burned it down. During the Reformation in the 16th century, the abbey was suppressed, and its lands were granted to the O'Reilly clan. After the rebellion of 1641, planters took over the land. The site is currently under the care of the Office of Public Works. Drumlane Abbey offers visitors a tranquil retreat with stunning views of Garfinny Lough.

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