Clonmacnoise (Cluain Mhic Nóis)

Ireland / Westmeath / Athlone /
 ruins, religion
One of Ireland's most famous eclesiastical sites, Clonmacnoise features a well preserved Round Tower & associated monastery. The large grave yard has several interesting high crosses. Clonmacnoise Castle lies close to the River Shannon, though only a few walls remain. The whole site sits on an Esker Ridge, which preserve it from the winter floods of the River Shannon.

There is a large interprative centre & car park and the surrounding area hosts some interesting wildlife. The floodplain of the River Shannon (known as the Callows) has a wide range of plantlife including several species of orchid.
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clonmacnoise
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   53°19'34"N   7°59'8"W
This article was last modified 3 years ago