ARDMORE

Map Reference: X190772

St Declan is supposed to have founded a monastery here before the arrival of St Patrick. There are three structures of note. A complete Round Tower stands to a height of 29m. Instead of continuously tapering as it rises it is divided into four distinct sections by an external string course with the external diameter being suddenly reduced at each stage. There is a very fine round-headed Romanesque doorway. The nave-and-chancel church nearby has a blind arcade inside and outside and on the outside of the west gable are some carvings set within a series of arches. The subjects include the Fall of Adam & Eve and the Adoration of the Magi. There are two Ogham stones inside the church. A little to the east is a small stone building with a pit in the floor. It is called St Declan's Oratory and is supposed to be the burial place of the saint.

LISMORE CATHEDRAL

Map Reference: X048987

The cathedral at Lismore was mainly built in 1633 but portions of it, including the chancel arch and south transept, may date from the 13th century. In the nave, near the west end, is the tomb of the McGrath Family dated 1557. It is richly carved and the weepers include St Gregory the Great, St Catherine of Alexandria and St Patrick. Close to the tomb is a collection of early cross-slabs and other carved stones.