Gallarus Oratory

early medieval period (sources give various dates--as early as 6th and as late as 10th century CE)



As early as the 6th century monastic settlements were built in remote areas of Ireland. This small oratory, built without mortar, uses corbel vaulting and is dimly lit, with only a tiny window opposite the entrance door.

 
Note the wide lintels above the door and small window, used to distribute the weight of the heavy stone vaulting.





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© 1999 Mary Ann Sullivan. I have photographed (on site), scanned, and manipulated all the images on these pages. Please feel free to use them for personal or educational purposes. They are not available for commercial purposes.

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