Bunratty Castle is a medieval fortress located in County Clare, Ireland, near the town of Ennis. It is one of the most well-preserved castles in the country and dates back to the 15th century. The castle is surrounded by a folk park which showcases traditional Irish village life.
Ennis Friary, located in Ennis, County Clare, Ireland, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Founded in the mid-13th century by the O'Brien dynasty, the friary was originally established as a Franciscan monastery. This site showcases a collection of medieval carvings, including images of St. Francis and St. Clare, as well as detailed scenes of the Passion of Christ. The friary's impressive cloisters and the sacristy, which once housed valuable manuscripts, add to its historical allure.
Clare Abbey, located in Ennis, County Clare, Ireland, is a historic Augustinian monastery founded in 1195 by Donal Mór O'Brien, King of Thomond. This picturesque site, nestled along the banks of the River Fergus, features the remains of a church, cloister, and various monastic buildings. The abbey's architecture showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, with notable elements including a tall, slender tower and intricately carved stonework.
Quin Abbey, located in Quin, County Clare, Ireland, is a well-preserved Franciscan friary founded in the early 15th century. Built on the ruins of an earlier Norman castle, the abbey features a striking combination of medieval architecture, including a central cloister surrounded by a series of domestic buildings and a church. The tower, which is a prominent feature of the abbey, provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Knappogue Castle, located near the town of Quin in County Clare, Ireland, is a stunning example of a 15th-century tower house. Built in 1467 by Seán Mac Conmara (John MacNamara), a prominent member of the MacNamara clan, the castle has a rich history that includes periods of restoration and various uses over the centuries. It has served as a defensive stronghold, a residence, and even a venue for social functions.
Craggaunowen is a fascinating archaeological open-air museum located near Quin, just a short drive from Ennis, in County Clare, Ireland. It offers visitors a unique glimpse into Ireland's past, particularly focusing on the early medieval and prehistoric periods. The site features a meticulously reconstructed 16th-century castle, which provides insight into the living conditions and architectural styles of the time. Additionally, Craggaunowen showcases a variety of reconstructed ancient dwellings, including a crannog (a type of ancient lake dwelling), a ring fort, and a souterrain (an underground structure). One of the highlights is the "Brendan Boat," a leather-hulled vessel that was used to reenact the legendary voyage of St. Brendan to North America.
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