Gateway 1:

Glendalough, often referred to as the City of the Seven Churches. Was once enclosed by a circular stone wall. As you pass through its ancient arches and follow the path leading to the monastic settlement, a sense of quiet discovery surrounds you.

The Gateway, a striking and picturesque structure. Holds the distinction of being Ireland’s only surviving medieval entrance to an early monastic city. Originally two stories high, it featured two impressive granite arches. The gatekeeper would have resided above on the upper floor. Remnants of projecting walls at either end suggest it once had a timber roof.

Inside the western wall of the Gateway, you’ll find a sanctuary stone marked with a carved cross—an ancient symbol of sacred ground.

As you walk through this historic gateway today, know that you are as warmly welcomed as the countless pilgrims and visitors who have come before you. In fact, you are more than welcome—you are a beloved child of God.

May you sense His presence not only in the breathtaking beauty of creation around you, but also within your own heart.
For within you dwells the sacred.

PSALM 24:
Let Us Pray

To the Lord belong earth and all it holds,
the world and all who live in it;
he himself founded it on the ocean,
based it firmly on the nether sea.
Who has the right to climb the mountain of Yahweh,
who the right to stand in his holy place?

Gates, raise your arches, rise,
you ancient doors, let the king of glory in!
Who is this king of glory? Yahweh the strong,
the valiant, Yahweh valiant in battle!
Gates, raise your arches, rise you ancient doors,
let the king of glory in!
Who is this king of glory?
He is Yahweh Sabaoth, King of glory, he!

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Cathedral 2:

The Cathedral is the largest and most prominent of the seven churches at Glendalough. Constructed in phases between the 10th and early 13th centuries. It reflects centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. Its foundation, built of large mica schist stones, includes material repurposed from an earlier, smaller church—stones that continue to bear witness to enduring faith.

The earliest part of the structure is the nave, marked by antae—projecting walls that once supported a wooden roof. In the late 12th and early 13th centuries, the chancel, sacristy, and north doorway were added. The chancel arch and east window were once beautifully carved, though many of the original stones have since been lost. The north doorway to the nave also dates from this later period.

Inside the Cathedral, you can still see a wall cupboard. A stone baptismal font, numerous grave slabs, and fragments of a once ornate arch. These remains speak of a vibrant spiritual community and of the reverence held for this sacred place.

One can only imagine the awe and wonder this great church must have inspired in pilgrims arriving on foot from across the land during the High Middle Ages. To build such a structure by hand, stone by stone, was a labor of deep love and devotion to God.

On the archway leading into the sanctuary, there is an unfinished carving—its work left incomplete. Why it was never finished is unknown. Was it the result of a sudden raid? A consequence of the dissolution of the monasteries? Perhaps. But I like to think it is something deeper.

Perhaps it is a sign that the building of God’s Church is never complete—that each generation is called to continue the work.

Pray and reflect: What part are you called to play in building the Church today?

PSALM 42
Let Us Pray

As the deer yearns for running streams
so, my soul is yearning for you my God.
My soul is thirsting for God the living God
when shall I come to see the face of God?

Tears are my bread day and night while my enemies
say to me all day long: ‘Where is your God?’
When I remember, my soul is filled with sadness
how I used to walk in the midst of a people rejoicing.

Why are you cast down my soul? Why are you sighing within me?
Hope in God, hope in God and you’ll praise Him again.
Because He, He is my salvation: He is my God.
Hope in God, and you will praise Him again.

How many times I say: ‘My rock, why have you forsaken me?’
why do I walk so sadly oppressed by my enemy?
My bones are crushed by listening all day long:
‘Where is your God?’

Lord, send your light and your truth. Let them lead me to your holy mountain then I will be able to sing to you a song of joy, a song of happiness with my guitar.

 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Round Tower 3:

The Round Tower of Glendalough is hailed as one of the finest and most beautiful towers in all of Ireland. Nestled in a lush, forested valley. The 30-meter-high tower is constructed from mica schist. With a doorway made of granite. The conical roof was restored in 1876 using stones found within the tower itself. Inside, the tower is divided into seven levels. Each separated by wooden floors and connected by ladders. The four floors above the entrance are illuminated by small windows. While the top story features four windows, each facing one of the compass cardinal directions.

In medieval Ireland, round towers had multiple functions: they acted as beacons for pilgrims, bell towers, storehouses, lookout points, and places of refuge during times of attack. The door is positioned about 3.5 meters above ground level. It is believed to have been a defensive measure—refugees could pull up the ladder from within to protect themselves. Despite being nearly 1,000 years old, the tower remains in remarkable condition.

The Bible contains several references to towers. One well-known being in Mark’s Gospel 12:1. Where Jesus tells the parable of the vineyard. In the story, a man plants a vineyard, surrounds it with a hedge, builds a winepress, and erects a tower before leasing it to tenants.

Standing here at this tower, gazing at the monastic site, it feels like a vivid image of that parable. It reminds me of the Gospel story where the owner of the vineyard will return one day to seek the fruits of His labour. 
Let us pray for the grace to be faithful stewards. Not like the unworthy tenants in the parable, but to eagerly welcome His return.

PSALM 120:  
Let Us Pray

I lift my eyes to the mountains from where will come my help?
My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.
He won’t let you stumble your guardian won’t go to sleep.
The guardian of Israel doesn’t sleep nor does he slumber.

The Lord is your guardian He’s like shade which covers you
by day the sun can’t strike you down nor the moon at night
The Lord guards you from every evil He guards your life

The Lord is the One who guards you
when you go out and when you come back
The Lord is the One who guards you now and for ever.

I lift my eyes to the mountains from where will come my help?
 My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Granite Cross 4:

St. Kevin’s Cross is a striking example of craftsmanship. Carved from a single piece of granite. Its arms stretch over a metre in length, and the cross stands roughly 2.5 meters tall. Without any holes or perforations. This solid structure may have once marked the boundary of the cemetery where the priests’ house is located.

A local legend adds a mystical touch to the cross: it is said that if someone can wrap their arms fully around the cross, bringing their fingertips together to form a complete circle, their wishes will be granted. This tale may serve as a form of catechesis, reminding us that embracing our own crosses in life can lead to inner peace.

PSALM 31
Let Us Pray

To every one of my oppressors I am contemptible,
loathsome to my neighbours, to my friends a thing of fear.
Those who see me in the street hurry past me;

I am forgotten, as good as dead in their hearts,
something discarded.
I hear their endless slanders, threats from every quarter,
as they combine against me, plotting to take my life.

But I put my trust in you, Yahweh, I say, ‘You are my God’.
My days are in your hand, rescue me
from the hands of my enemies and persecutors;
let your face smile on your servant, save me in your love.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Priests House 5:

The Priests’ House has been largely rebuilt using its original stones. Guided by a 1779 sketch of the structure by Gabriel Beranger. This modest Romanesque building features decorative arches at both ends and is believed to have served as a tomb shrine. Possibly housing the relics of St. Kevin. Its name, “Priests’ House,” originates from the practice of burying priests here during the 18th and 19th centuries. Two 18th-century priests, famed for their healing abilities, contributed to the site’s popularity among pilgrims. These pilgrims would gather clay from the graves and apply it to their sores and wounds while reciting prayers.

Local folklore also suggests that the clay from the building’s floor was thought to cure toothaches, with pilgrims rubbing it on their jaws to find relief. The exact purpose of the room remains uncertain, with differing theories proposing that it may have been built over St. Kevin’s grave or simply housed his relics.

The lintel above the doorway is carved with an ecclesiastical figure. Perhaps representing St. Kevin, seated between two figures. One holding a crosier and the other a bell. The upper portion of the stone is missing, but it’s believed that the complete lintel was triangular in shape. Likely intended for the position it currently occupies.

As I stand in this Church, I am reminded to pray for those called to the Priesthood—may they have the courage to answer this sacred calling. I also lift up in prayer all those who are serving as priests, asking the Lord to strengthen and support them in their ministry.

PSALM 83:
Let Us Pray

How lovely are your dwelling places, O Lord, Lord of hosts!
My soul longs and yearns for the courts of the Lord.
Even the sparrow finds a home, the swallow its nest
near your altars O Lord, my King, and my God,

Happy he who lives in your house,
ever singing your praise, Happy he who finds
in you the strength and decides in his heart
the holy journey.

Passing through the valley of tears,
He turns it into a spring: his strength grows along the way
till he arrives in Zion.

For me a day in your courts is worth more
than a thousand elsewhere. To dwell at the gate of your house
is better than to live in the palaces of the mighty.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

St Kevins Kitchen 6:

St. Kevin’s Church stands out for its unique round tower or belfry, topped with a conical cap. Which is integrated into the structure of the church itself. Due to its small size and the tower’s resemblance to a chimney. It’s often affectionately referred to as “St. Kevin’s Kitchen.” The tower rises three stories high. Some sources suggest that the tower was part of the original church. While others propose that the church initially had just a nave with a west-end entrance. Above what later became the chancel arch, the upper section of the gable window is still visible. Hinting at the later addition of the chancel (now missing) and the sacristy.

The steep roof of the church is adorned with corbelled stones. Similar to those at St. Doolagh’s Church in Dublin and St. Columb’s House in Kells. Internally, the roof is supported by a semi-circular vault. Originally, the church had a wooden upper floor, and access to the roof chamber was through an opening at the western end of the vault. Some believe this upper space may have served as an anchorite cell.

Anchorites and anchoresses were common in the Middle Ages. Choosing lives of solitude within small cells built against churches. After they moved in, the door to their cell would often be bricked up. Many churches included a small window or “squint” that allowed them to view religious services and receive Holy Communion.

It has been suggested that St. Kevin’s Church may have once housed such solitary figures who separated themselves from the community. Possibly living in the upper vaults of the church, beneath the roof. They would have dwelled in small stone cells. Likely with a small garden or enclosure. Observing Mass and other services through a peephole. Their needs were minimal.”

“From what we know about similar practices in continental monasteries. It’s believed that people might have communicated with the anchorites by passing food through an opening in the wall. 

Although there is no concrete documentary evidence to confirm the presence of anchorites at St. Kevin’s Church. The possibility aligns with the broader patterns of monastic and anchoritic life that existed throughout medieval Europe.

PSALM 26
Let Us Pray

The Lord is my light and my salvation
whom need, I fear? The Lord is the fortress of my life
of whom should I be afraid?
I am sure I shall see your goodness O Lord
Wait for the Lord, take courage.

One thing I ask of the Lord only one thing I seek:
to live in the house of The Lord all the days of my life.

For He hides me under His shelter in times of trouble.
He hides me deep in his tent, sets me safe on a rock.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Deer Stone 7:

The stone takes its name from a legend linked to St. Kevin. According to tradition, one of the saint’s workmen lost his wife during childbirth as she delivered twins. Distraught, the man turned to St. Kevin for help. The saint prayed earnestly to God, and in response, a doe appeared at a particular spot each day, shedding milk into a hollow in a stone. The workman would sit nearby on a boulder, watching the miraculous event. Legend says that the hollow in the stone was formed by the man’s fingerprints, and ever since, the stone has been known as the “Deer Stone.”

This legend seems to be a variation of an earlier story found in the Life of St. Kevin. In that account, the saint fostered a baby boy named Foelán. From infancy, the child was cared for under Kevin’s guidance. Each day, a doe descended from the mountains and patiently waited to be milked by one of the monks to feed the child. Thanks to this divine provision, the boy grew strong and eventually inherited his father’s estate.

“Sing to Yahweh in thanksgiving, play the harp for our God. 
He veils the sky with clouds, and provides the earth with rain, makes grass grow on the hills and plants for people to use, gives fodder to cattle and to young ravens when they cry.”Pslam 142

PSALM 34
Let Us Pray

I will bless the Lord at all times his praise always in my mouth.
I glory in the Lord let the humble hear and rejoice.
Sing with me to the Lord together let us sing to his name
for I sought the Lord and he answered me and He freed me from all my fears.

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he rescues them this poor man calls out; and the Lord hears him
and frees him from all his anguish.

O taste and see how good is the Lord happy
is the man who takes refuge in Him.
Many trials lie in wait for the just man
but from them all the Lord frees him this poor man calls out;
the Lord hears him and frees him from all his anguish.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Lower Lake 8:

Just a short stroll North from the Deer stone you will come upon the lower Lake. You may be familiar with the stories of a monster at Glendalough. Accounts of this monster can be found in the Lives of St Kevin. According to the story Fionn MacCuamhaill prophesied that Kevin would overcome a monster in the lower lake and drive it to the upper lake. The waters of this lake now hold miraculous powers for all ailments.

Stories of Holy people overcoming strange monsters can be found throughout history. This one of St Kevin is one of my favourite. Kevin neither kills the monster or banished it from the lake, but through prayer and the help of God learns to have control over it and live with it. 

It reminds me of my own human condition and some aspects of my Character that make me who I am. However they can cause upset to the people around me. With the help of God and prayer I can learn to control them, it brings to mind Psalm 131. My heart has no lofty ambitions.

PSALM 137
Let Us Pray

Beside the rivers of Babylon, remembering you
we sat down to weep on the willows we hung up
our guitars. remembering you we sat down to weep.

“Sing” our enemies told us; “Sing” our oppressors told us.
They wanted us to sing songs of joy,
How could we sing the Lord’s songs in a foreign land?
if I forget you may my right-hand wither,
may my tongue cling to my palate

if I don’t remember you Jerusalem as my greatest joy.
Lord, ask account of our enemies;
Lord, ask account of our oppressors
when they say to each other:
“Raze it down to its foundations”

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Nature House 9:

A short distance from the upper Lake you will find the Information Office with the Parks Friendly Education staff on duty to help and give details of all the local walks. The Staff have a love and knowlage for the park that they enjoy sharing. This house was once the home of the local Forster before the area became a park. In the cottage there is an array of information and exhibit of stuffed local wildlife.

Take some time to sit and enjoy the sensory garden and take in the views around you.

PSALM 8
Let Us Pray

Oh Lord our God how great is your name
Throughout the earth,
above the heavens rises your love!

From the mouth of babes and infants
You affirm your glory, O Lord,
to reduce to silence enemies and rebels.

If I look at the heavens, the works of your hands,
the moon and the stars that you have set in place.
What is man that you care for him?

The son of man that you keep him in mind?
Yet, yet you have made him little less than the angels
with glory and honour you have crowned him
everything you have put under his feet

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.

Reefert Church 10:

The name Reefert is distinctive and derives from the Irish Ríogh Fheart, meaning “royal burial place.” While this term often refers to secular burial sites of pre-Christian origin, it suggests that this location was used for burials long before Christianity arrived in Ireland during the 5th century and before Glendalough became a Christian center under St. Kevin.

Traditionally, Reefert is believed to have served as the burial ground for the local ruling family, the O’Tooles. It is likely that this site functioned as their cemetery even before a church was constructed here. The church that stands on the site today dates to the early 12th century, but it was not the first religious structure built in this location. Its west doorway features a large lintel and inward-sloping jambs—characteristics typical of earlier ecclesiastical buildings—and incorporates reused stones from an earlier foundation.

The church itself is modest in design, following the simple nave-and-chancel layout, and is constructed from unadorned granite. Measuring just under 9 meters in length and a little over 5 meters at its widest point, it was one of the earliest examples of its architectural type in Ireland. Inside, the space was originally lit by small round-headed windows, and corbels on the gable walls still mark where the wooden roof once rested.

The surrounding graveyard is equally significant, containing numerous grave markers that date back to the 12th century and earlier. Several cross-slabs discovered here are now preserved in the Glendalough Visitor Centre. A number of plain stone crosses remain in place, including one with an interlace design carved on its head. These crosses may have served as stations for pilgrims. It is thought that the graveyard, which originally served as the burial ground for local chieftains, later became a resting place for prominent ecclesiastics as well.

Reefert Church, sits atop a small grassy knoll and is reached by a stone-lined path—offering visitors a sense of reverence and connection to those who came before. Although no remains of an earlier church from St. Kevin’s time have survived, it is quite possible that a sacred structure once once stood here during his lifetime. The present church, dating to around the 10th or early 12th century, became the final resting place of members of the O’Toole dynasty, including seven of their princes. Part of the original altar has survived and is now housed inside nearby St. Kevin’s Church.

PSALM 63
Let Us Pray

O God, you are my God,
I seek you from dawn
for you my soul is thirsting,
my flesh is longing for you:
Like a land parched without water.

Your love is better than life my lips speak your praise
so I bless you in your Name I lift up my hands.
My soul clings to you, your right hand holds me fast
I remember you through the night I muse on you.

My soul is filled as with a banquet,
my mouth praises you with joy, for you are my help
and in the shadow of your wings, I rejoice.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen.