Aghaviller facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Aghaviller |
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Áth an Bhiolair
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Ruined church and round tower
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| Former names | Aghavirrer |
| General information | |
| Type | Church and round tower |
| Location | County Kilkenny, Ireland |
| Coordinates | 52°27′59″N 7°16′3.25″W / 52.46639°N 7.2675694°W |
| Construction started | 12th century |
| Reference #: | 334 |
Aghaviller is a special historical place in County Kilkenny, Ireland. It is home to the ruins of an old church and a tall, ancient round tower. This site is so important that it is protected as a national monument.
The name Aghaviller comes from an old Irish phrase, Áth an Bhiolair, which means "field of the watercress." It is located south of Kilkenny city, about 12 kilometers southwest of Thomastown, near Knocktopher.
What's in a Name?
The name Aghaviller has an interesting history. Ancient writings called the Annals of the Four Masters referred to it as Achadh-biorair. This also meant "the field of watercresses." Another old record mentioned it as Agha-oillir, which meant "field of the pilgrim."
The Ancient Tower and Church
Just a short distance from the old church, you can see the lower part of an ancient round tower. This tower is made of a type of rock called breccia.
People have been writing about this tower for a long time. The Statistical Survey of 1802 mentioned it. The Kilkenny Archaeological Society also wrote about it in 1855.
Aghaviller's tower is one of five round towers in County Kilkenny. The others are found at Kilkenny, Tullaherin, Kilree, and Grangefertagh. What makes this tower special is that it has two doors, which is unusual for round towers. Close by, there is also a holy well and the beautiful Castlemorres Demesne.
See Also
