Donegal Abbey, also known as Donegal Friary, is a historical Franciscan friary located in Donegal Town, Ireland. Founded in 1474 by Red Hugh O'Donnell and his wife Nuala, it became an important religious and cultural center. The abbey is particularly noted for being the site where the Annals of the Four Masters were compiled, a significant chronicle of medieval Irish history. Although much of the friary now lies in ruins, the remains include parts of the church, cloister, and other monastic buildings, all set in a picturesque location by the shore of Donegal Bay.
Doonagore Castle is a picturesque tower house located near the village of Doolin in County Clare, Ireland. Built in the 16th century, the castle features a distinctive round tower with a conical roof, perched on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It was originally constructed by the O'Conor family and later came under the ownership of the MacClancy family.
Duiske Abbey, located in the picturesque town of Graiguenamanagh in County Kilkenny, Ireland, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Founded in 1204 by William Marshal, the abbey was originally a Cistercian monastery and served as one of the largest and most influential religious institutions in the region. The abbey is named after the River Duiske, which flows through the town. Though much of the original structure fell into ruin after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, substantial restoration efforts in the 20th century have preserved its grandeur. Today, visitors can admire the gothic architecture, including the magnificent nave, intricately carved stonework, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Newmills Corn and Flax Mills in Letterkenny, Ireland, is a historic site that showcases the milling industry of the 19th century. The complex includes both a corn mill and a flax mill, powered by the River Swilly. Visitors can explore the well-preserved machinery and learn about the traditional processes used to grind corn and process flax into linen. The site offers guided tours, providing insights into the industrial heritage of the region and the daily lives of mill workers during that era.
Highlanes Gallery in Drogheda, Ireland, is a dynamic visual arts space housed in a converted 19th-century Franciscan church. Known for its impressive blend of contemporary and classical exhibitions, the gallery features works from both Irish and international artists. It also holds a significant permanent collection, including pieces from the Drogheda Municipal Art Collection.
St Mary's Pro-Cathedral, located in Dublin, Ireland, serves as the primary place of worship for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Dublin. Often referred to as the Pro-Cathedral, which indicates its status as a temporary cathedral, it has been the principal church of the archdiocese since its consecration in 1825. The building features a neoclassical design, characterized by its grand portico with six Ionic columns, and an elegant, spacious interior.
The Steam Museum in Straffan, located near Maynooth, Ireland, is a fascinating attraction dedicated to the history and preservation of steam engines and related machinery. Housed in a charming Victorian Gothic church, the museum features an impressive collection of steam engines, many of which have been meticulously restored to their original working condition. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits showcasing the evolution of steam technology and its impact on industry and transportation.
Dunasead Castle, located in Baltimore, County Cork, Ireland, is a historically significant structure that dates back to the 13th century. Originally built by the O'Driscoll clan, a prominent seafaring family, the castle served as their stronghold and a defensive fortress. Overlooking the harbor, it played a crucial role in controlling maritime traffic and protecting the area from invaders. The castle has undergone various modifications and restorations over the centuries.
Clonfert Cathedral, located in Banagher, Ireland, is a historic site renowned for its remarkable Romanesque architecture. The cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, features an intricately carved doorway that is often considered one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland. This ecclesiastical gem also houses a variety of medieval sculptures and carvings.
The Cathedral of Christ the King in Mullingar, Ireland, is a prominent Roman Catholic cathedral that serves as the focal point of the Diocese of Meath. Built between 1932 and 1936, this stunning architectural masterpiece was designed by architect Ralph Byrne in the Romanesque Revival style with Art Deco influences. The cathedral is notable for its twin towers and an exquisite interior featuring beautiful stained glass windows, murals, and a striking marble altar.
Aughnanure Castle, located in Oughterard, County Galway, Ireland, is a well-preserved 16th-century tower house built by the O'Flaherty family, one of the most powerful Gaelic clans in Connacht. The castle is strategically situated on the banks of the Drimneen River, making it a formidable defensive structure. It features a six-story tower, defensive walls, a banquet hall, and a dry moat. The castle's name, Aughnanure, is derived from the Irish "Achadh na nIúir," meaning "field of yews.
The John F. Kennedy Arboretum in New Ross, Ireland, is a picturesque and expansive botanical sanctuary dedicated to the memory of the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy. Spanning an impressive 252 hectares, the arboretum boasts a diverse collection of over 4,500 types of trees and shrubs from around the world, meticulously cataloged and planted in a manner that mimics their natural habitats. Visitors can enjoy serene walks through themed areas, including sections dedicated to plants from the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Australasia.
Russborough House, located near Blessington in County Wicklow, Ireland, is one of the finest examples of Palladian architecture in the country. Built in the mid-18th century for the 1st Earl of Milltown, Joseph Leeson, the mansion is renowned for its stunning classical façade, meticulously landscaped grounds, and an impressive art collection. The estate's interiors boast exquisite plasterwork, ornate ceilings, and period furnishings, reflecting the grandeur of the era. Russborough House has also been associated with a number of high-profile art heists, adding an element of intrigue to its rich history.
The Cathedral of St Mary and St Anne, also known as the North Cathedral, is a notable Roman Catholic cathedral located in Cork, Ireland. Constructed in the early 19th century, the cathedral is an architectural gem combining elements of Gothic Revival and classical styles. It serves as the seat of the Bishop of Cork and Ross. The building features a striking façade with twin spires and an impressive interior adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate woodwork.
Carlow County Museum, located in Carlow, Ireland, offers visitors an intriguing glimpse into the rich history and heritage of County Carlow. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits that span various time periods, showcasing everything from archaeological finds and historical documents to cultural and social history. Highlights include the beautifully restored 19th-century pulpit from Carlow Cathedral and a range of local memorabilia. The museum is housed in a former Presentation Convent, adding an architectural interest to the visit.
The Black Abbey in Kilkenny, Ireland, is a stunning example of medieval ecclesiastical architecture. Founded in 1225 by William Marshal, the Earl of Pembroke, it was originally established as a Dominican friary. The abbey derives its name from the black habits worn by the Dominican friars. Over the centuries, it has witnessed significant historical events, including the dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII.
The Samuel Beckett Bridge in Dublin, Ireland, is a striking piece of modern engineering and design. Named after the famous Irish writer Samuel Beckett, the bridge spans the River Liffey and connects Sir John Rogerson's Quay on the south side to North Wall Quay in the Docklands area. Designed by the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the bridge resembles a harp lying on its side, which is a traditional symbol of Ireland.
Mount Melleray Abbey, located near Lismore in County Waterford, Ireland, is a Trappist monastery established in 1833. It is known for its serene environment, nestled at the foot of the Knockmealdown Mountains. The abbey was founded by monks from the Melleray Abbey in France who sought refuge in Ireland following religious persecution. The community focuses on a life of contemplation, prayer, and manual labor, adhering to the principles of the Cistercian Order. Visitors to the abbey can explore the beautiful church, the surrounding grounds, and the guesthouse which offers a place for retreat and reflection.
Clifden Castle, located in Clifden, Ireland, is a historic ruin that dates back to the early 19th century. Built in 1818 by John D'Arcy, the founder of Clifden, the castle was originally a grand mansion designed in the Gothic Revival style. Over the years, the property changed hands and eventually fell into disrepair. Today, the castle stands as a picturesque ruin, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning views of the surrounding Connemara landscape.
The Spire of Dublin, also known as the Monument of Light, is a striking and contemporary monument located on O'Connell Street in Dublin, Ireland. Standing at 120 meters (393 feet) tall, it is one of the tallest structures in the city. The spire is made of stainless steel and tapers to a slender point at the top. It was designed by the architects Ian Ritchie and was completed in 2003. The Spire of Dublin is a symbol of modernity and renewal in the city, and its sleek, minimalist design contrasts with the historic architecture surrounding it.
The National Leprechaun Museum in Dublin, Ireland, offers visitors a unique and immersive experience into the world of Irish folklore and mythology. This captivating museum explores the rich cultural heritage of Ireland through the lens of one of its most iconic mythical creatures, the leprechaun. Visitors can wander through a variety of themed rooms filled with interactive exhibits, giant furniture, and enchanting storytelling sessions that bring to life the myths, legends, and fairy tales of Ireland.
Sean's Bar in Athlone, Ireland, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest pubs in the world, with its origins dating back to 900 AD. Nestled on the banks of the River Shannon, this historical establishment offers a unique blend of ancient charm and contemporary Irish hospitality. Visitors are often captivated by the pub's fascinating history, evidenced by the ancient artifacts and records displayed within.
Knowth, located in Slane, County Meath, Ireland, is a significant prehistoric site that forms part of the Brú na Bóinne complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Knowth features a large Neolithic passage grave, which dates back to around 3,200 BC, making it older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt. The site is renowned for its impressive collection of megalithic art, with over 300 decorated stones, the largest collection in Western Europe. The main mound, known as Site 1, is encircled by 18 smaller satellite mounds and contains two long passages leading to burial chambers. Excavations have revealed that the site was used for various purposes over millennia, including habitation and ritual activities.
The Glencree German War Cemetery, located in Enniskerry, County Wicklow, Ireland, is a solemn and peaceful resting place for German soldiers and civilians who perished in both World Wars. Established in 1961, the cemetery contains the graves of 134 individuals, many of whom were casualties of wartime incidents in Irish waters or airspace. The site is maintained by the German War Graves Commission (Volksbund Deutsche Kriegsgräberfürsorge) and features simple, uniform headstones set amidst a tranquil landscape.
Planning a trip?