Dysert O’Dea Monastic Site

The church and round tower dating from the 12th century are located on an 8th-century Christian hermitage founded by St. Tola, who died between 733 and 737. The church itself consists of a nave and choir but the most famous aspect of this building is its elaborate Romanesque door which can be found on its south wall. This door is dominated by its outer arch which features 19 carved human and animal heads.

Dysert O’Dea also has a beautiful high cross which marks the entrance into the church grounds. The high cross also dates back to the 12th century. Upon its east face is a figure of Christ on the cross with a bishop beneath him; some sources claim the bishop represents St. Tola, while others say it is St. Monalagh. The other sides and base of the high cross are decorated in geometrical designs, animal interlacing and human figures.

The church eventually fell into disrepair, but was reconstructed in 1683. This is also when the high cross was re-erected and placed on a base made up of the corner stones of the church by Michael O’Dea. The cross, with its base, stands at a height of 12 feet.

The round tower that stands beside the church was converted into a fortification in the 16^th century. Today, the ruined tower stands at about 60 feet, however one side of it is now merely 12 feet off the ground.

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This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014