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More than 5000 entries on the history, culture and life of Britain (published in 1993 by Macmillan, now out of print)
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round towers
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The most characteristic architectural feature of Celtic monasteries. Built from the 10C to 14C, they are tall structures of stone with a conical top and with the entrance too high for easy access from the ground. They served a double purpose, as a belfry calling the monks to prayer in normal times and as a place of refuge, with the wooden or rope ladder pulled up, during a *Viking raid. Many such towers survive in Ireland and three in Scotland.
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