As one approaches Glendalough, the most obvious landmark is this 30-metre-tall stone tower rising high over the surrounding trees. Such towers were a common feature of early Irish monastic sites. They functioned as bell towers, store houses and as refuges during times of attack. This one, built in the 10th century, stands in the cemetery, which still serves the local community. The entrance door is 3.5 metres above the groun

Read more in Tripatini contributor Anthony Toole´s post Glendalough, Ireland´s Valley of the Two Lakes.