{
  "$type": "site.standard.document",
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    "uri": "at://did:plc:w34qvlqjeulngt5zv4yx5jpr/app.bsky.feed.post/3mmhibusxv5k2"
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  "path": "/places/rattoo-round-tower-early-christian-monument",
  "publishedAt": "2026-05-22T16:00:00.000Z",
  "site": "https://www.atlasobscura.com",
  "tags": [
    "belltowers",
    "christianity",
    "towers"
  ],
  "textContent": "The only surviving complete round tower in County Kerry, dating from the 13th century. The ecclesiastical complex has an adjoining graveyard with the earliest addition dating from 1770. There is a door, located approximately 3m above the ground.\n\nThis was a defensive feature that allowed the monks to retreat into the tower via a ladder, which they pulled up after them, separating them from their attackers. The purpose of building a tower was to utilise height to forsee an attack from afar. The tower has 4 windows at its highest level, facing north, south, east and west.\n\nAlso visible on the north window on the first floor of the tower is a grotesque (gargoyle-like stone carving) of a humanoid with an exposed vulva. This is called 'Sheela-na-gig', and was intended to ward off demons and evil spirits.",
  "title": "Rattoo Round Tower in Ardroe, Ireland"
}