Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower

Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower: A Historical Gem in County Cavan

Drumlane Abbey, located just outside the village of Milltown in County Cavan, Ireland, is a remarkable site steeped in nearly 1,500 years of history. Overlooking the serene Grafinny Lough, this ancient monastic complex is home to an abbey, a monastery, and one of the few remaining intact round towers in Ireland. The site offers visitors a tranquil retreat rich in historical significance and natural beauty.

Historical Significance

Founded in 555 AD by Saint Columba, Drumlane Abbey stands as a testament to early Christian Ireland’s architectural and spiritual heritage. The site was originally more extensive, with a large monastery and several outbuildings, though much of it has not survived. However, the church, the largest of the surviving structures, and the iconic round tower still draw visitors from far and wide.

The round tower, constructed from stone in the 12th century, replaced an earlier wooden structure. It remains the only surviving round tower in the Diocese of Kilmore and is a distinguished feature of the estate. Round towers, a uniquely Irish phenomenon, were built between the 5th and 13th centuries, primarily as places of refuge where valuable relics and manuscripts could be hidden during attacks. The entrance to the Drumlane tower is located about nine feet above ground level, a typical feature designed to make the tower more secure.

During the Middle Ages, the Drumlane estate was under the control of the O’Farrelly clan. A medieval gravestone, intricately carved, is said to mark the burial place of a member of this family. In 1261, the abbey was attacked and burned by the O’Rourke family. Later, during the Reformation in the 16th century, the abbey was suppressed, and some of its lands were granted to the O’Reilly clan by the English monarchy. After the rebellion of 1641 was crushed, the land was taken over by planters, marking a significant change in the area’s history.

Preservation and Conservation

Drumlane Abbey and its round tower have been under the care of the Office of Public Works (OPW) for the past 138 years. The disestablishment of the Church of Ireland in 1869 led to the transfer of many architecturally significant ecclesiastical sites to the Board of Works, now the OPW. Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower were among the first to be listed as National Monuments, a designation that has ensured their preservation for future generations.

The OPW has overseen conservation work at the site, maintaining the integrity of this important historical monument. The involvement of renowned architect Thomas Deane, appointed as Inspector of National Monuments in 1880, marked the beginning of a structured approach to conserving sites like Drumlane, alongside other well-known Irish landmarks such as the Rock of Cashel and Glendalough.

Visiting Drumlane Abbey

Today, Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower offer a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors. The site’s location by the lake provides stunning views, especially when approached from the hill. Despite its remote and tranquil setting, the abbey is easily accessible, with ample car parking and interpretive facilities that help visitors understand the site’s rich history.

For those interested in Ireland’s early Christian heritage, Drumlane Abbey is a must-visit destination. The site is ideal for a quiet morning spent exploring the ruins, reflecting on the passage of time, and appreciating the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The modern graveyard adjacent to the ruins adds a poignant contrast between the past and present.

Visitor Impressions

Visitors often remark on the peaceful atmosphere of Drumlane Abbey. The ruins, set against the backdrop of lakes and rolling countryside, provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The site’s historical significance is palpable, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The narrow road leading to the abbey adds to the sense of discovery as you approach this hidden gem.

Drumlane Abbey is not just a site of historical interest; it is a place where the past and present converge, offering a unique glimpse into Ireland’s rich monastic heritage. Whether you are drawn by its ancient history, its architectural beauty, or its tranquil setting, Drumlane Abbey and Round Tower promise a memorable visit that leaves a lasting impression.