Shocking Find, They Ransacked This Mausoleum

   • McKenna Castle and Mausoleum  

Description from Irish archaeology

One of the earliest monastic sites in Ireland, Ardmore, Co. Waterford was probably founded sometime in the 5th century AD by St. Declan. This early Irish saint was associated with the Déisi Muman people of Waterford and his missionary work amongst them may have pre-dated the activities of St. Patrick. His monastery was built on height over-looking the Irish sea and today it contains a wide range of archaeological features. These include an impressive 12th century round-tower, an early stone oratory, a ruined 12th century cathedral and two inscribed ogham stones of possible 6th century date.
Although containing some earlier fabric, most of the surviving cathedral is 12th century in date and is probably related to work carried out by bishop Moelettrim O Duibh Rathra. One of its more distinctive architectural features is a Romanesque arcade along the cathedral’s western wall, which contains a number of panels depicting biblical scenes. Despite being badly worn in places, some of these images can still be discerned, including Adam and Eve, the Adoration of the Magi, the Archangel Michael weighing souls and the Judgement of Solomon.
Although containing some earlier fabric, most of the surviving cathedral is 12th century in date and is probably related to work carried out by bishop Moelettrim O Duibh Rathra. One of its more distinctive architectural features is a Romanesque arcade along the cathedral’s western wall, which contains a number of panels depicting biblical scenes. Despite being badly worn in places, some of these images can still be discerned, including Adam and Eve, the Adoration of the Magi, the Archangel Michael weighing souls and the Judgement of Solomon.

The Round Tower
Possibly the most impressive surviving building at the site is the round-tower. Circa 30m tall, this structure originally functioned as a bell tower, as well as being a place of refuge during times of trouble. For extra security the doorway was positioned 4m above ground level and was probably access via a wooden ladder that could be withdrawn inside when needed. The tower has four floors and three small windows along its body, with four more windows located at the very top, one at each of the cardinal points of the compass.

#history #graverobbers #coffin