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Gallarus Oratory, Dingle

4.3

#1 of 101 in Things to do in Dingle

Climbing out of Gallarus Oratory through its window cleanses one's soul, according to local mythology. Visiting the 1,000-year-old church proves this cannot be done, as the structure's window measures only 18 cm (7 in) in length and 12 cm (5 in) in width. Despite its small dimensions, the ancient church represents the pinnacle of dry-stone architecture, built using techniques originally developed by Neolithic tomb makers. The builders cut the stones with such precision that even after a millennium the structure exhibits a smooth finish on its outside walls. Take a walk around this simple structure to fully appreciate the level of skill needed to fit the stones so precisely together. Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Gallarus Oratory by using our Dingle itinerary planning app .

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Gallarus Oratory Tours

Private Tour: Dingle Peninsula from Killarney BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $61

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Duration: Flexible

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Private Tour of Dingle Peninsula from Killarney BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $399

3 reviews

Duration: 9 hours

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Private Guided Tour of Dingle Peninsula from Tralee BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $410

1 review

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Gallarus Oratory Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

1,183 reviews

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4.3

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206 likes

By Sergiy M On March 17, 2018

One of the oldest churches in Ireland was built in 7th century. Church is very small but you can get inside and feel you a part of the history. It is free of charge. Open I think from April till Octob... more »
By RmcoUK On March 12, 2018

This was the main site on the peninsula we had chosen to see - lots more were found. Very friendly reception and a very special site. more »
By Dionysia8 On March 1, 2018

Very neat to know that this has been used for centuries as a place of worship. Close to Dingle, don't miss this! more »

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By George Begbie On May 28, 2018

This is a beautiful historic site to visit. The oratory itself is fascinating well worth the visit and to learn about its different uses over the years. However - BEWARE -- The property near the oratory (and big car park) will try and charge you. The site itself is free to everyone. The business just owns the land next to it. So -- instead of driving left, drive straight up on the narrower road, there are about 5-6 parking spaces there, and you can view what was always intended to be free for everyone. Enjoy!

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By Kate Gardiner On July 12, 2018

Excellent audiovisual. Great experience! Well worth a stop while driving the Dingle loop.

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By chuck norris On July 2, 2018

Cool place! Long walk from road though and not much else to see. Oratory itself was cool also

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By Matt McBurnett On July 9, 2018

Sort of a freaky thing amazingly preserved. As an American, it is refreshing to see such old structures intact, just lying in a pasture.

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By Whitney Sanchez On March 19, 2018

The site itself is great and worth a quick stop! When you turn onto the road you will see a sign for free parking, DON'T turn in here. The parking is free, but you'll be charged 3 EUROs to walk to the oratory. If you drive about a 1/2 mile further up you'll see another little parking lot. You can park here for free and walk to the oratory. The first parking lot is owned by a man who owns the property next to the oratory but not the oratory itself. He has a little gift shop and charges a fee for you to walk up to the oratory. If you're interested in just the site and not a gift shop, skip the first free parking sign and drive to the little lot. Don't fall for paying the fee.

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