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On this page you can enjoy a photo tour of the grounds of Clonegal Castle, Fellowship of Isis Foundation Centre.
A first glimpse of the castle from the avenue of lime trees.
An FOI Priestess shares images of a magical visit.
The front entrance of Clonegal Castle
The Old AbbeyPhoto, left: Wildflowers growing in the abbey.
When approaching the castle entrance to the Northeast, on the right hand side of the castle grounds the ruins of The Old Abbey come into view. The walls date from the 14th century, making it contemporary with the trees of the famous Yew Walk. The Old Abbey was the setting for the first rites of the Druid Clan of Dana. Lawrence Durdin-Robertson called it "The Old Dana Abbey" and " The Temple of Dana."
Within the ruins of the abbey there is a dolmen altar and two marble stone basins used to collect rainwater. It was here in the early 1960's that Lawrence Durdin-Robertson and Olivia Robertson performed Druidic initiations with Ross Nichols, founder of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids. Rites and prayers were performed in Gaelic by Ben McBrady, Aircinneac and Herenach of a pre-Druid Megalithic Order called “The Old Gaelic Order.” (*see Note, below)
Photo, left: A visitor to the castle, seated within the Old Abbey.Scenes from the Castle Grounds
Enchanting scenes delight castle visitors from every direction. The castle, abbey ruins and surrounding landscape blend together the historic heritage and beauty of nature, which is the hallmark of Clonegal Castle.
Visitors from all over the world have enjoyed tours of the castle grounds. FOI members can always apply for an invitation in advance if they wish to spend time with Olivia. She is happy to comply if her busy schedule allows the opportunity.
Flowers growing out of an ancient stone wall.
Storage buildings behind the castle.
Ancient walls of stone provide a nesting place for the roots of wildflowers, rambling roses grow wild in the ruins of the old abbey, the beautiful and mysterious Mt. Leinster lies in the distance, and the remnants of a primeval forest stands just beyond the castle gardens.
It was in one of these buildings (pictured above) that Lawrence and Olivia searched for a sword to use for the ceremony that inaugurated the Noble Order of Tara. Douglas Reagan, the first consecrated Knight of the NOT, held vigil over that sword in the Temple of Isis before the high altar the evening before his consecration as Knight Commander.
The Castle Garden
A view of the gardens behind the castle
An ancient statue in the middle of the castle garden
The garden has a sense of grace and tranquility. Plantings of exotic vines, trees and flowering shrubs grace the walkways. The garden of Clonegal Castle is believed to be the second oldest in all of Ireland.
A fountain graces the end of a walkway in the formal gardens.
A Walk in the Forest or "Wilderness" of the Castle Grounds
A misty pathway in the garden leads to the avenue of yew trees and the forest which lie on the edge of the castle grounds.
The Avenue of Yew Trees dates from the fourteenth century and is the oldest planting in the vicinity of the castle. The avenue forms a covered walk which leads to the forest. It is one of the most famous natural features of Clonegal Castle.
Past the yew trees lies a wilderness of immense natural beauty.
The ancient mill house.
A dried stream bed strewn with wildflowers provides a passage way through the brush.
A clearing with palm tree and small pool.
The forest holds many ancient secrets and sights but now it is time to return to the castle. There is still much to see!
The Temple of Isis at Clonegal Castle
The entrance to the Temple of Isis at Clonegal Castle can be seen on the lower level, a shrub partially covers it from view at this angle.
Re-entering the castle gardens one can see the temple entrance
A closer view of the rear of the castle and the entrance to the temple
Stone steps lead from the main area of the castle to the temple shrines below. A statue of Atalanta can be seen on the landing. Her name means "balanced."
The steps that lead to the temple shrines
Just inside the alcove of the entrance, an ancient plaque of Aquarius
Another ancient plaque set into entry way beams
Statue in the portico at the temple entrance
The Temple of Isis of Clonegal Castle is reached by walking down a series of stone steps from the upper stories. The entrance is framed by a portico which shelters the doorway that leads into the sanctuary. Within the temple are shrines dedicated to the five sacred elements, the signs of the zodiac and to Deities from many cultures, with a particular emphasis on the Goddess. There is also a holy well dedicated to Brigid, a Chapel of the Mothers which is used for initiations, a Healing Chapel and a high altar in the Holy of Holies. This temple is the heart of the Fellowship of Isis. The temple is in constant use. Daily meditation, healing and attunement take place within the shrines. It is here that Olivia has received divine inspiration and guidance for the oracles and rites that comprise the Fellowship of Isis Liturgy.
To enter the portico and proceed to the shrines of the Temple of Isis of Clonegal Castle, please use the link directly below.
Visit The Shrines of Clonegal Castle
Back to Clonegal Castle
Back to FOI Photo Albums
Photos © Renee Samaniego-Lundy. Photo of interior of abbey ruins with Isis plaque and stone basin courtesy of Lady Olivia Robertson. All photos are copyrighted. All rights reserved.
(*) Note: Ben McBrady, known as Brady of the Name and Herenach of the Two Kilmores, is believed to have been the last member of “The Old Gaelic Order.” Because of this he was called “The Last Druid.” He passed away in January of 1996. Ben McBrady was a descendant of Lugar MacLugair (Lughaid mac Loeguire), who was Chief Druid of Ireland and Druid to the High King Leary and the Kings of Leinster. Lugar MacLugair was also believed to have been a member of “The Old Gaelic Order.”
All photos are copyrighted, used by permission. All rights reserved.
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