Drumlane or Droim Leathain in gaelic means the broad ridge/hill, it is located in a peaceful setting of picturesque small drumlins and small lakes close to the village of Milltown overlooking the picturesque Grafinny lough.
The Abbey and Round Tower of Drumlane date back to the year 555, and it is believed it was founded by Saint Colmcille. The name of Saint Mogue is used in close association with Drumlane but there are many reasons for concluding that the foundation is older than his time. The exact date of its foundation cannot be fixed with certainty but the historical evidence leads to the conclusion it belongs to the early part of the sixth century.
The circular round tower, which stands next to the abbey is well preserved and is recognised as the only surviving round tower of its kind in the dioceses of Kilmore. Towers are of Christian and ecclesiastical origin and were erected at various periods between the 5th and 13th centuries. They served as belfries and as a place of strength in which were secreted utensils, books, relics and other valuables were deposited of in case of sudden predatory attack and were used for safe watch. The entrance in to the tower itself is about nine feet above the ground. This was of greater security as in the event of a raid on the monastery, the monks could ascent to the entrance by means of a ladder, which was then drawn up, and the position of the entrance ensured that no attackers could rush in. what is interesting is that the first twenty two feet the stones are well cut and closely fitted, the doorway which is in this part of the structure indicated how skilful the workmanship was. The upper part of the tower on the other hand is much smaller and undressed. For generations it was believed that the monks deposited treasures in the nearby lake i.e. bell, chalice and trunk of books for safe keeping but this has never been proven.
This is a fantastic monastic site that is remarkably still intact, even after nearly 1500 years.
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