Lifestyle & Sports
28 Nov 25

Clondalkin Round Tower: A hidden gem in South County Dublin – and a cultural experience not to be missed

South County Dublin is home to many fascinating historical buildings – and to the stories that make them special. One of these impressive landmarks, known as Brú Chrónáin as Gaeilge, is located in Clondalkin.

A short drive or bus ride from Dublin City Centre, Clondalkin is one of the capital’s largest and most diverse suburbs, boasting lots to see, do and enjoy.

It is a part of South County Dublin that boasts a rich and fascinating history.

The village of Clondalkin began as a monastic settlement, founded by St. Crónán Mo-Chua, in the 6th or early 7th century AD. Clondalkin’s most iconic landmark – Clondalkin Round Tower or Brú Chrónáin – was built circa 790AD.

That building still stands proud today, having presided over more than 1,000 years of history, which saw the area shift from the predictability of small village life to the marvellous complexities of the modern era.

UNDERSTANDING THE HISTORY

Clondalkin Round Tower is one of around 65 similar structures in Ireland. This striking landmark was possibly built in the 9th or 10th century and is thought to be the oldest fully intact Round Tower still standing and it retains its original cap. The structure served as a bell tower and lookout-point, from which the inhabitants of the monastery could spot danger – or indeed bad weather – on the way.

The occupants may well have observed the Viking warriors as they approached, but they were no match for the invaders, who are said to have sacked the place brutally in 832AD. A traumatic period followed, before the monastery was restored, apparently leading to the conversion of many of the Vikings. The area was again the location for a major battle in 1171, pitching Strongbow – the Anglo-Norman leader of the invasion of Ireland (aka Richard de Clare) – against the last of the High Kings of Ireland, Ruadhrí Ua Conchubhair (Rory O’Connor).

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Clondalkin Round Tower is the focal point of a brilliant visitor centre that tells a detailed, chronological, history of the monastery, and of Clondalkin village itself.

Indeed, it does so much more than that, locating the story of Clondalkin in the broader context of the history of Ireland, encompassing war, famine, revolution, resilience – and lots more besides.

Best of Dublin went to visit it on a bright autumn morning. Entrance is free, as is the audio guide, which comes in five languages. Guided tours (available Sat-Thurs.) can also be booked upon request via the website. Whether you’re visiting alone or with family and friends, the feeling is that you are embarking on a very special kind of adventure.

The visitor centre features an array of fascinating and accessible interactive exhibits that gradually bring this ancient slice of Ireland to life.

You can read about the early days of the settlement and learn more about monastic life. A stunningly animated audiovisual experience tells the entire story – how monks came and went, and how the settlement was raided and attacked by the vikings and Brian Boru, and onwards towards the indomitable present.

Upstairs, you’ll discover what life was like in the 1800s, when the building that now houses the heritage centre was built. You can dress up in the traditional clothes of the era, and see what life was like in an old classroom, as well as what games kids played.

The community is involved in the project too: in one exhibit, visitors can hold up an earpiece and listen to stories being told by locals – many of whom have seen Clondalkin, and Ireland, go through a huge amount of change. There’s beautiful work from some of Ireland’s finest craftspeople on display, with Fiona Harrington’s Irish Lace Revival works highlighting the area’s traditional crocheting and lacemaking techniques.

Beyond its captivating exhibitions and tranquil gardens – which act as a peaceful place for visitors to relax –the centre organises an impressive calendar of events and workshops.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the restaurant at the centre serves high-quality food, lovely coffee and delicious baked treats.

A hidden gem in South County Dublin, Brú Chrónáin in Clondalkin, offers visitors the chance to discover a rich vein of local Dublin history. It is a cultural experience not to be missed.

• Brú Chrónáin is open on weekdays from 8am-4pm, and from 8am-5pm on Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit www.theroundtower.ie