We finally got away from home for a brief two day holiday on a boat on Lough Erne in County Fermanagh. We explored the lower lake which is dotted with wooded islands. One of the largest islands is Devenish, a monastic settlement for over one thousand years from the sixth to sixteenth century. The name in Irish is Daimh Inis meaning ‘Ox Island’. Stone masons on the island in medieval times were particularly skilled and left behind evidence of their craft. The carved cross in the foreground dates from the 15th century and the intact round tower from the 12th century.

The Vikings attacked Devenish in the ninth and tenth centuries but by the 12th it was a thriving community. Round towers were an important form of defense in those days as the monks could carry their valuables to the top of the tower when the enemy appeared. A door was set high up in the side of the wall and reached by a ladder. Once everyone was inside, the ladder was pulled up and it was difficult for marauders to gain entry.

It rains at Lough Erne. A lot. You can see how much by the rich green grass. In the woodlands along the lake and on our walk up to the monastic buildings, the ground was definitely damp and squelchy underfoot. I liked this glimpse of the 12th century round tower through a 15th century doorway.

The interior of the ruined 15th century priory had an emerald green tinge that almost glowed in the light of a September afternoon. The carved stonework on the ceiling and around the doorways shows the skill and enthusiasm of the medieval stone masons.

It’s an interesting spot to visit in Northern Island and you don’t need to have your own boat. Devenish Island is only six kilometres from Enniskillen and you can catch the ferry from Trory pier during the summer months to wander back in time among these beautiful ruins.