Kilmalkedar, Medieval church and monastic site in County Kerry, Ireland
Kilmalkedar is a medieval monastic site in County Kerry featuring a Romanesque church with finely carved stone details on its main doorway and chancel arch. The church structure includes an east window placement that reflects typical medieval ecclesiastical design of the period.
The monastery was founded in the 6th century and grew into one of Kerry's wealthiest parishes by the medieval period. Its importance declined from the 16th century onward as conditions changed for religious sites across the region.
The site forms part of the Cosán na Naomh pilgrimage route, where visitors can still trace the nine clockwise circuits traditionally performed on Easter Sunday. This practice connects the place to ancient forms of veneration that remain alive in the local community today.
The site remains accessible year-round and provides parking for approximately three vehicles directly adjacent to the entrance. Visiting requires no special arrangements, as the grounds are open and straightforward to explore.
A stone monument inscribed with 'dni' from the 6th century reveals evidence of early writing systems at this location. The site also holds a medieval sundial, one of only nine known examples across Ireland.
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