Religious site
Dysert O'Dea Monastery
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Dysert O'Dea Monastery is an early Christian monastic site located about 10 km north of Ennis, near the village of Dysert. Founded in the 8th century by St. Tola, the site features a well-preserved round tower, the remains of a Romanesque church, and several high crosses, including the famous Dysert O'Dea Cross. The cross, dating from the 12th century, is intricately carved with biblical scenes and Celtic patterns. The round tower, standing about 20 meters tall, is one of the best examples in County Clare. The site also includes a holy well and the ruins of a later medieval church. Visitors can wander the peaceful grounds, imagining the monastic life that thrived here over a thousand years ago. The nearby Dysert O'Dea Castle houses a small museum with artifacts from the site.
Don't miss
- See the 12th-century Dysert O'Dea High Cross with intricate carvings
- Climb (or view) the round tower, one of the tallest in Clare
- Explore the Romanesque church ruins and holy well
- Visit the nearby Dysert O'Dea Castle museum
- Photograph the atmospheric monastic landscape
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Dysert O'Dea Monastery
You can visit Dysert O'Dea Monastery on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.
Cheapest way inPublic Ennis Walking Tour with Local Expert Dr Jane O'Brien4.9★ · 270 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$41 per personSee dates →
Most bookedPrivate Ennis Dark History Tour with Dr Jane O'Brien (1-6 people)4.9★ · 14 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$262 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleCliffs of Moher and The Burren day trip4.8★ · 12 travelers~7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$805 per personSee dates →Getting there
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