Ardmore County Waterford
Ardmore is situated in West Waterford a few minutes off the main Waterford - Cork road (N25) The round tower overlooks the beautiful sandy beaches and the quiet picturesque fishing village. Ardmore is an ideal family resort. The beach was one of the first in Ireland to be awarded the E.U. Blue Flag. Ardmore is also a winner of Ireland's Tidiest Village Award
It is the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland. St. Declan lived in the region 350-450 AD and Christianised this area before the coming of St. Patrick. St. Declan's feast day is "Pattern day" every 24th of July.
Round Tower and Cathedral
This beautifully proportioned Round Tower built in the 12th century raises its tapering form to a height of 30 metres (97 feet), and is divided on the outside into four storeys, marked off by projecting string courses. The entrance doorway is some 4 metres above ground level. The purpose of The Round Tower was to serve as a belfry, and as a place of refuge for the ecclesiastics, and for the safe custody of their books, chalices, shrines and relics.