Αυτοκόλλητο The Gateway to the Monastic City από Matt Anderson Photography

The Gateway to the Monastic City

Gateway to the Episcopal City of Glendalough, Site of "Kevin of Glendalough" Monastic site. This was the principal entrance and it has the distinction of being the only surviving entrance to an early ecclesiastical settlement.The remains today are the two semi-circular arched sections some 16 ft. (5 metres) apart, which formed the front and back portions, supported by granite piers. The inner arch rises higher than the outer one in order to compensate for the upward slope of the flagged causeway. Although the walls were sturdy and able to support the keeper’s quarters and tower they were rather crude in style. While the gable ends appeared to be quite strong some experts wonder how the side walls were able to support the weight involved. Just beyond the inner arch in the west wall is a rectangular slab 5 ft. (1.5metres) high and about 7½ ft. (2.5 metres) long. It is carved with a cross of unusual design. The cross has a curiously widespread shaft but despite its shape it is believed to have been the sanctuary mark which ensured protection to anyone seeking refuge within the monastic confines. This form of protection was quite common at several other monastic sites throughout the Irish countryside.