The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to announce the completion of conservation works to Kells Round Tower in Co. Meath. The monastic settlement of Kells was founded by St. Columba in the mid-6th century and is reported to be site where the Book of Kells was completed.
Although Kells Round Tower was structurally sound, over the centuries it had experienced significant mortar loss and stone erosion. The conservation works commenced after the erection of the scaffolding in February 2024. Given the location of the tower, and its proximity to the footpath and graveyard, for health and safety reasons it was necessary to have fully-boarded scaffolding including a pedestrian walkway/gantry, access stairs, vehicular access, crash deck and public lighting before works could commence.
Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran said: ‘The completion of the conservation works to Kells Round Tower is a significant milestone in preserving our architectural heritage sites. This project demonstrates OPW’s commitment to maintaining and preserving our past and to ensure that future generations to come will enjoy these historic monuments. I want to thank everyone involved in delivering this significant project”.
All of this skilled work was carried out by OPW National Monuments skilled craft workers in the Trim District, including the OPW stone masons trained in traditional methods. The conservation works include:
This work will preserve the Round Tower in Kells for future generations and ensure it remains an important landmark for the people of Kells and visitors to the town.
