This is one of Ireland's best-known and earliest religious sites. Here stand the remains of two churches, a Round Tower, three High Crosses and a pre Gothic sundial. Founded in the 6th century by St. Buite, or St. Boyce, the monastery became a renowned seat of learning and art.
The 95ft Round Tower dates from the 10th century and was used by monks for refuge from the marauding Viking hoards which ransacked many of the wealthy Irish monasteries during the 10th and 11th centuries.
Amongst the finest remains on the site are surly the awe inspiring High Crosses, the most impressive of which is The Cross of Muiredach, standing a massive 17ft 8in, the cross clearly depicts scenes from the Bible, carved in the stone over one thousand years ago. Nearby is the West Cross, standing at over 12ft in height, it is the tallest High Cross in the country.
Getting To and Around Monasterboice
For information on getting to and around Co. Louth, see our Co. Louth Transport Guide.
Bus to Monasterboice
- Bus routes operated by Bus ireann:
- 100:
- Dundalk (Bus Station- Long Walk) - Drogheda (Bus Station)
- Skerries (War Memorial) - Dundalk (Bus Station- Long Walk)
- 100:
- Bus routes operated by Matthews Coach Hire:
- 901:
- Parnell Street
- 903
- 904:
- University Campus
- 901: