Cloyne Round Tower: A Sentinel of Irish History

The Cloyne Round Tower, located in the heart of Cloyne, County Cork, is a remarkable example of an Irish round tower. This historic structure, approximately 30 meters (100 feet) tall, dates back to around the 10th century. It was built by monks and used for safety and as a bell tower. The tower is constructed from dark purple sandstone and has walls about 16.25 meters around. The tower is divided into seven stories, with the first beginning at door level, which is 13 feet from the ground. The doorway faces southeast and may have once been approached by a flight of stone steps. Each story has a window, except for the top story, which has four windows facing the cardinal directions. Over the centuries, the Cloyne Round Tower has witnessed its share of historical events. In 1749, lightning struck the top of the tower, causing damage to its upper part. Although the tower is no longer accessible to the public due to insurance costs, it remains a prominent landmark and a reminder of Cloyne's rich heritage. The tower is located on Church Street, opposite St. Colman's Church of Ireland Cathedral, suggesting that the 13th-century cathedral may have been built on the site of an earlier church.