This ancient chapel sits on top of a rocky outcrop which looks like granite but is actually a huge chunk of grey quartz and tourmaline crystal. The chapel dates back to at least 1409 when it was dedicated to St. Michael.
There are many legends about the chapel including all sorts of hermits, lepers and ghosts, but the most romantic is part of the Arthurian legend and the story of Tristran and Iseult.
The story goes that Tristram, a nephew of King Mark, was sent off to Ireland to fetch the King's bride to be, Iseult. Somehow the couple accidentally sipped a love potion together (as you do) and the two fell hopelessly in love. Needless to say, this made them none too popular with King Mark. The lovers took refuge in Roche Rock's chapel, which may have been a hermitage at the time.
It is also said to be a major node on the St. Michael ley line that runs from the southern tip of Ireland all the way to the East Anglia Coast.
Whether these tales are true or not, it is an awe inspiring and visualy stunning place where the air seems to be alive and energy seems to flow into your feet from the ground.
Oh wow, what an interesting place and history! Beautifully photographed (love the sky). I will have to add this to my list of must-see places, being a "Roche" now myself! :)
