The Gallarus Oratory is believed to be an early Christian church located on the Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry, Ireland. Though the building is believed to have been built between the 7th century and 9th century, some believe it could have been built as late as the 12th century because of the Romanesque-style window on its eastern wall. According to local legend, if a person climbs out of the oratory via the window, their soul will be cleansed.

Gallarus Oratory

As early as the 6th century, monastic settlements were built in remote areas of Ireland. This small oratory, built without mortar, uses corbel vaulting, a technique developed by Neolithic tomb-makers. It is dimly lit, with only a tiny window opposite the entrance door. Shaped like an upturned boat, this miniature church overlooks the harbour at Smerwick on the Dingle Peninsula.

It is built with the stones being laid at a slight angle, lower on the outside than on the inside, allowing rainwater to run off. This design has kept the interior relatively dry, despite the lack of mortaring, allowing the building to stay in excellent condition.

External links

Gallarus Oratory's page at the Cork Kerry Tourism Bureau