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Gallarus Oratory Extraordinary


Gallarus Oratory Extraordinary
Photo Information
Copyright: Scott Muenger (Swissguy) Silver Note Writer [C: 0 W: 0 N: 22] (92)
Genre: Places
Medium: Color
Date Taken: 1997-10
Categories: Architecture
Camera: Pentax IQZoom 105
Photo Version: Original Version
Date Submitted: 2006-10-28 17:12
Viewed: 503
Points: 4
[Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note
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.

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 Ard na Caithne (formerly also called 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.

Shot on a rainy day (nothing unusual so near the Ring of Kerry - - just amazed how not a drop of mortar was used to build this structure.

No filter, flash or anything. Resized, cropped a little. No pp work. One oratory.

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Critiques [Translate]

interesting photo of a historic site that i have never heard of. very interesting.

well done.

  • Great 
  • juyona Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Note Writer [C: 2517 W: 0 N: 993] (13808)
  • [2006-10-29 3:38]

Hola Scott, Maravillosa arquitectura, perfecto disparo... saludos

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