An Irish Monastery: Glendalough (Wicklow) | Irish Architecture | Briefing | Professor Roger Stalley

Early Architecture in Irreland & Romanesque Architecture in England

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An Irish Monastery: Glendalough (Wicklow) | Irish Architecture in the Early Middle Adges: c. 500–1200 AD
Professor Roger Stalley

Although founded in the 6th century, none of the existing buildings pre-date the 10th century. No single 'great' church dominated the complex, rather seven relatively small structures formed the core of the community. No domestic or utilitarian buildings survive. As a result of these losses it is difficult to discern how the buildings related to each other and whether there were any coordinated relationships.

Digging ditches and building walls was one of the first tasks undertaken at the foundation of a new monastery, a symbolic ritual that defined the sacred precinct or 'termon.' Providing some defence against external attack, as well as protection from the weather in exposed sites, these walls also defined the areas of spiritual authority within the monastery, separating them from the outside world. At major sites such as Glendalough, there were concentric walls defining an inner and outer sanctum. Here at Glendalough, enough survives to appreciate the enormity of the ecclesiastical earthworks. The Glendalough enclosure was approached through a stone gatehouse of the 11th or 12th century, two arches of which remain. The gateway provided an impressive entry encountered by the visitor.

The characteristic features that define the site might be summarized thus:

The general setting and location of the buildings
The cathedral church developed in three phases
St Kevin's church featuring a corbelled roof and barrel vault
Trinity Church featuring one of the first 'arches' in Ireland
Enclosing bank and gatehouse

Ireland, Glendalough, Gateway

Ireland, Glendalough, Cathedral

Ireland, Glendalough, St. Kevin's Church