You’re right, it’s a lightning conductor. And to briefly explain, it’s a round tower, the purpose of which is uncertain…
Because the entrance is some 3 or 4 meters above the ground, it was originally thought that a round tower was a lookout and defensive structure against Viking raiders. When threatened the local clerical population could enter, using a ladder which could be drawn up after them.
But the Irish word for round towers, “cloictheach” literally means bellhouse, so it’s also possible that its main purpose was as a belfry.
6 comments in “5th century anti-viking panic room”
January 2nd, 2010 at 11:17 pm
Many thanks for your comment, it is fun.
January 2nd, 2010 at 11:18 pm
A very big and beautiful picture, with very good rendering, the Sun where need be, bravo!
January 2nd, 2010 at 11:55 pm
I like this. Is that an antenna or a lightning rod on top of this tall thingy ?
January 3rd, 2010 at 10:30 am
absolutely beautiful photo
January 3rd, 2010 at 4:46 pm
Hi Pierre.
You’re right, it’s a lightning conductor. And to briefly explain, it’s a round tower, the purpose of which is uncertain…
Because the entrance is some 3 or 4 meters above the ground, it was originally thought that a round tower was a lookout and defensive structure against Viking raiders. When threatened the local clerical population could enter, using a ladder which could be drawn up after them.
But the Irish word for round towers, “cloictheach” literally means bellhouse, so it’s also possible that its main purpose was as a belfry.
Or may be both!
January 7th, 2010 at 9:02 pm
Incredible story… Those medieval guys were probably having more fun than their cubicle-bound descendants (like, err, me).
Or not
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