Sunday, June 23, 2013

Blarney Castle, Ireland

 Blarney Castle is one of the most well known attractions in Ireland due to the Blarney Stone at the top of the castle.  The photo above shows the main castle buildings that remain standing.
 This is a view of the top of the castle, where the Blarney Stone is located.  Legend is that if you kiss the Blarney Stone, you will obtain the gift of eloquence.  The original castle dates from 1200, but the current castle was rebuilt in the 1400's.  It was besieged and captured by British Parliamentarian forces during the wars in the 1690's.
 Near Blarney Castle is Blarney House, a mansion built in the 1870's.
 This is a view from the top of Blarney Castle across the meadows to the Blarney Woolen Mill.  It appears to be an old woolen mill that is now used as a restaurant and store that advertises itself as the largest Irish-themed store in Ireland.  I believe them.
The gardens surrounding Blarney Castle are beautiful.  In addition to the lawns and flowers, there is an area with trails, waterfalls, stone bridges, a walkway across a bog, and other features.

4 comments:

glenda said...

Delightful pictures of Ireland. Read about the Blarney stone and castle but never saw a photo of it. Hope you didn't pass up the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone.

Memphis MOJO said...

Nice series. I particularly like the third one.

Judy said...

What an amazing place to see up close.

Sharon said...

All that green is a feast for the eyes.

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