Greetings from Ireland…wish you were here!

Photo above of the monastic ruins of Clonmacnoise in County Offaly, Ireland.

The ancient monastic ruins of Clonmacnoise were founded somewhere between 543 and 549 AD by St. Ciaran, on the banks of the River Shannon. The name “Clonmacnoise” means “Meadow of the sons of Nos” and represents some of the most spectacular ancient monastic ruins in the world.

The ruins of this ancient monastic city encompass the impressive cathedral, seven ancient churches (dating from the 10th to 13th centuries), towers and iconic gravestones.

The strategic location of the monastery enabled it to become a major center of religion, learning, craftsmanship and trade in the 9th century.

If you close your eyes, you can almost imagine it! It reminds me of the book I’m currently reading (although set in 11th century England) called “The Pillars of the Earth” by Ken Follett. I can’t stop imagining what life would be like back in those savage days.

Written by thirdeyemom