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Glendalough, situated in picturesque County Wicklow, was made famous by Saint Kevin who came to the area in the 6th century. He was looking for a place of solitude and having found it, remained and lived a rather hermitic life. He founded his monastery here which attracted thousands of people who were intrigued by St. Kevin's simple and scholarly ways. Over time, a school developed, attracting thousands of students from Europe. St. Kevin died in the year 618 at 120 years of age but the remains of his monastery can still be seen.

The most famous of all the landmarks in the area, however, is the Round Tower which stands 110 feet above the ground. It was built almost 1000 years ago by the monks of St. Kevin's monastery. The roof had to be replaced in 1876 when it was struck by lightning. Local Folklore reveals that when the repairs were being carried out, Sam Kennedy, a local man, danced around the rim of the tower. The tower was originally built as a bell tower and a place of refuge when the monastery was attacked. There are many stone crosses and churches to see. As well as these magnificent remains, there is the breathtaking scenery of the valley to enjoy

This fine tower, built of mica-slate interspersed with granite is about 30 metres high, with an entrance 3.5 metres from the base. The conical roof was rebuilt in 1876 using the original stones. The tower originally had six timber floors, connected by ladders. The four storeys above entrance level are each lit by a small window; while the top storey has four windows facing the cardinal compass points. Round towers, landmarks for approaching visitors, were built as bell towers, but also served on occasion as store-houses and as places of refuge in times of attack.

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