Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
foundation. Several ruined churches (10th-12th century) and a sea of grave markers com-
plete this evocative scene. Markers give short descriptions of the ruined buildings.
InanIrelandwithoutcities,thesemonasticcommunitiesweremainstaysofcivilization.
They were remote outposts where ascetics (with a taste for scenic settings) gathered to
commune with God. In the 12th century, with the arrival of grander monastic orders such
as the Franciscans and the Dominicans and with the growth of cities, these monastic com-
munities were eclipsed. Today, Ireland is dotted with the reminders of this age: illuminated
manuscripts, simple churches, carved crosses, and about 100 round towers.
TheGreenRoadcontinuesonemilefartherupthevalleytothe
Upper Lake.
Theoldest
ruins—scantandhardtofind—lienearthislake.IfyouwantascenicWicklowwalk,begin
here.
