The Irish Round Tower

The Irish Round Tower is the only form of architecture that is unique to Ireland. Over seventy of these early Christian/early medieval towers survive in Ireland widely distributed throughout the island, with the bulk of them located in the southwest. Many of those that remain are linked with surviving monastic settlements, and are situated in some of the most beautiful and historic areas for the country. Little has been written on the towers, and this lavishly illustrated book views them as an integral part of an often no vanished ecclesiastical complex. Labor explores their architectural design and construction, their function and their landscape setting. He examines each tower in detail and discusses the uniqueness of each site. Drawing on documentary evidence from continental European ecclesiastical sites, he puts forth a compelling explanation for their origin. Both a detailed study and a practical guide, The Irish Round Tower will appeal to archaeologists, historians, and tourists. Brian Labor is the author of a number of books, including the prestigious Blue Guide to Ireland, now in its eight edition.