For our second foray out of Dublin, we rented car and drove to Glendalough to see the 6th century monastic community and tower founded by St. Kevin (498-618) .  Glendalough (or Gleann Da Loch, meaning ‘The Glen of the Two Lakes’) is situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains National Park.  Chris was familiar with the site, having visited here in 1984, but this was my first experience of ancient Celtic Christianity and it proved to be both lovely and meaningful.

A marvelous visitor’s center introduced us to the golden age of Irish History:  the Ireland of Scholars and Saints.  Set in a glaciated valley with two lakes, the monastic remains include a superb round tower, stone churches and decorated crosses. The round tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area. The site also includes a Celtic high cross, St. Mary’s Church and St. Kevin’s Church.

The day was overcast and quiet, but occasional sun breaks brightened both the skies and our spirits.  While walking the route toward the lower of the valley’s two lakes, we spied browsing deer and as the sun broke through, we turned to witness a rainbow shining brightly, it’s terminus illuminating St. Kevin’s church, tower and cemetery.  We took it as a providential sign of blessing!  Standing at the shore of the lake where the hermit St. Kevin once spent long nights vigil was a powerfully moving experience.  Truly this is a spiritual place!