Clones or 'Cluain Eois' – the meadow of Eois, is one of the oldest continuous settlements in County Monaghan. It developed around a monastery founded by St. Tiarnach in the 6th century and the town boasts a rich historic fabric which illustrates the town's evolution. St Tiarnach's tomb is marked by a unique stone sarcophagus dating from the early 13th century and is located close to the Round Tower. The Round Tower dates from the 10th Century. The ancient High Cross that stands on the Diamond belonged to his monastery. The abbey built by Tiarnach was attacked by both Vikings and Normans and after one terrible assault in the 12th century it, and the town, were destroyed. From the ashes a new St. Peter and Paul's Abbey was built, known to locals as 'The Wee Abbey'. The Normans, devout Christians themselves, fought a running war with the Irish chieftains who had ruled this area. They built a fort at the highest point of the town and it became one of the finest Motte and Bailey type fortifications in the country. Long after the Norman influence faded, a new wave of settlers arrived to create their own legacy.
That is just a taste of the story of Clones. To discover more, come and join us on our Town Trail which takes in key heritage sites and buildings of wider social and cultural interest. More detailed information on each site is available at the site itself.
The Trail follows a 3.5km route around the town and is self-guided, however, there historical commentary videos at most of heritage trail locations that can be used with your Smartphone
Click here View Heritage Trail Video Previews
