Clonmacnoise

united kingdom

Clonmacnoise sits along the Shannon in County Offaly, about 20 kilometers south of Athlone, making it one of Europe's most significant early Christian sites. Most visitors arrive via the M6, exiting at Athlone and following the R444 south, with the drive from Dublin taking roughly 90 minutes. The monastery's location on Ireland's central plain was perfect for medieval times, as the river provided both protection and transport. The site's Round Tower stands 19 meters tall with its doorway positioned over three meters up to keep raiders out.