Gazing up now, at this sturdy structure, we’re face to face with the Swords Round Tower. It is a relic of a time long ago. This tower stands as a silent witness to centuries of Irish history.
The Swords Round Tower dates back to approximately the 10th century. Imagine people constructing it. They used unworked limestone rubble. The walls are roughly 1.3 meters thick. The Swords Round Tower stands 26 meters tall. Its diameter is about 5 meters.
Notice how the entrance door is at ground level. This is not typical for a round tower. It is believed the ground level has risen over the years. It may have risen by as much as 2 meters.
Take a closer look at the upper floor. It was obviously restored in relatively recent times. Some suggest the 18th century. Others suggest the 17th century. The reconstruction is badly executed. It adopts a more square rather than cylindrical profile.
At the top, you’ll see an undecorated cross. Rev. Henry Scardeville erected it between 1682 and 1704. He wanted to show the Christian origins of the tower. Back then, people debated the origins of round towers. Some thought Danes built them. Others thought they were Phoenician or pagan fire temples. But round towers are Christian buildings. They are associated with churches. Most date from before the Anglo-Norman invasion.
The doorway and surviving windows have straight lintels. There is no ornate decoration. The second floor had a corbelled stone floor with flagstones. Timber floors were more typical. Also on this floor is a large opening above the doorway. The corbelled floor and large window suggest this storey was significant. It could have been the monastery’s treasury. Treasures and relics associated with the founder could be displayed here. People could venerate them.
The Swords Round Tower is all that remains of a monastery. St. Colmcille founded it in 512. Vikings and other raiders attacked it many times. After the Battle of Clontarf, Brian Boru’s body was taken here. So was his son’s body. They were later moved to Duleek.
It’s best to visit the Swords Round Tower on a clear winter’s day. When the trees are in full leaf, it is hard to get good photographs of the tower.
The Swords Round Tower is more than just a stone structure. It is a symbol. It represents faith and resilience. It stands as a beacon connecting us to Ireland’s rich past. Take a moment to appreciate its history.