Conolly's Folly, Stone obelisk monument in Maynooth, Ireland
The stone structure rises 140 feet high and features multiple interlocking arches decorated with stone eagles and pineapple sculptures at its base.
Katherine Conolly commissioned this monument in 1740 during the Irish famine to provide employment opportunities for local farmers at a cost of £400.
The structure represents Irish architectural heritage through its Georgian design by Richard Cassels, combining classical elements with local building traditions.
The Office of Public Works maintains protective fencing around the monument, but visitors can observe it from several viewpoints in the surrounding area.
The folly stands as a connection point between three Irish towns: Celbridge, Leixlip, and Maynooth, visible from Castletown House four kilometers away.
Location: Maynooth
GPS coordinates: 53.36908,-6.56052
Latest update: May 27, 2025 10:05
Castletown House
3.5 km
The Wonderful Barn
3.5 km
Maynooth Castle
2.6 km
Aula Maxima, Maynooth
2.8 km
National Science Museum at Maynooth
2.7 km
Taghadoe
3.9 km
Donaghcumper Church
3.9 km
Mullen Bridge
2.1 km
St Catherine's Park Church
5.9 km
Bond Bridge
2.5 km
St Mary's Church
2.6 km
Church of Our Lady's Nativity
4.5 km
Leixlip Bridge
5 km
Celbridge Bridge
3.7 km
Saint Patrick's Church
3.5 km
Donaghstown Church
5.5 km
Deey Bridge and Lock
2.1 km
St Patrick's College Collegiate Chapel
2.8 km
Pike Bridge
1 km
William Bridge
2.6 km
Christchurch
3.5 km
St Mary's Church
4.7 km
Maynooth Library
2.4 km
Jackson's Bridge and Lock
4.3 km
St Catherine's Holy Well (Dublin)
5.8 km
Taghadoe Round Tower
3.9 km
St Mary's Catholic Church
2.7 km
Rock Bridge
4 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes