Swords Round Tower — Attraction in Fingal

Swords Round Tower and St. Columba’s Church offer a profound glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian heritage. The round tower, dating from the 9th century, stands as a testament to the monastic tradition established by St. Columba around 560 AD. Adjacent to it is the 14th-century belfry, the sole remnant of the medieval church that once stood on this site.

Historical Significance

The round tower is one of the few surviving examples of its kind in Dublin. Standing approximately 26 meters tall, it was originally constructed to house the monastery’s bell and to serve as a refuge during Viking raids. The belfry, built in the 14th century, reflects the architectural style of the period and once formed part of a larger ecclesiastical complex.

Architectural Features

The round tower is notable for its construction, with walls approximately 1.2 meters thick, designed to withstand external threats. The belfry, though now a solitary structure, provides insight into the medieval church’s design and the community’s devotion during that era.

Cultural Legacy

Beyond its architectural and historical value, this site holds cultural significance. It is believed that the bodies of King Brian Boru and his son Murrough were brought here after the Battle of Clontarf in 1014, before being transported to Armagh for burial.  This connection to a pivotal moment in Irish history adds depth to the site’s cultural importance.

Conclusion

Visiting Swords Round Tower and St. Columba’s Church offers more than a look at ancient structures; it provides an opportunity to connect with Ireland’s rich monastic past and its enduring...

Back in 2016 when I when I first visited I was told, by a local visiting the graveyard, that although previously in good condition the church building required much repair work as there were signs of increasing conservation problems. There was no immediate danger of collapse but overall condition was such that unless urgent remedial works were carried out the building would quickly deteriorate. The community had vacated the structure following loose plaster which fell into area over font. Complex remedial works was required required. I visited early in 2022 and it would appear that the church was active once again [but only...

Swords Round Tower and St. Columba’s Church of Ireland just north of the Dublin International Airport in Swords, Ireland is a beautiful medieval church and round tower. I visited here because this is the place where the monks waked the body of King Brian Boru after he was killed while praying in his tent just after the Battle of Clontarf. Following the Brian Boru trail led me here on my final day of my trip to Ireland. I was not disappointed to see how well they kept up the grounds and structure of...