A range of buildings clusters about the foot of the fine round tower, which owes much of its splendour to its new cap, restored by the enlightened gentlemen antiquarians of the late 19th century. It may look congested, but in fact the monuments extend over about a mile and a half across the valley. Activity may have predated the saint's arrival. Although said to be St Kevin's living quarters at time of retreat, it may well have served as a Bronze Age burial place. Near the Poulanass waterfall, in a grove of trees, stands Refeert Church, worth noting for its plain Romanesque window.
Tradition maintains it is the burial ground of local rulers.
Glendalough has endured multiple fires and Viking raids. It was destroyed nine times between 775 and 1071. It was raided at least four times during the ninth and 10th centuries. A dispute over succession culminated in a devastating blaze in 1163, while the English burnt it down in 1378. Active restoration began in 1875.