The Round Towers of Ireland are among the most enigmatic and extraordinary constructions of the early Irish Church. Why were they put up? What were they used for? Where did the idea come from, and when? Hector McDonnell, one of Ireland's best-known contemporary painters, outlines the story of the round towers, and presents a radical theory. With a gazeteer at the back, and numerous rare early engravings, this is an excellent small guide to the field.