Ballaghmore Castle is a historic 15th-century fortress located near Roscrea in County Laois, Ireland. The castle was originally built by the O'Moore clan and is a prime example of a traditional Irish tower house. Over the centuries, it has seen various restorations and changes in ownership. The structure is notable for its imposing stone architecture, battlements, and narrow windows, which were typical features designed for defense.
Mitchelstown Cave, located near Cahir in County Tipperary, Ireland, is one of the most spectacular show caves in the country. Discovered in 1833, the cave features a series of large chambers adorned with stunning calcite formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the cave's impressive underground landscape, learning about its geological history and the processes that formed these natural wonders.
Hore Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery located near the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, Ireland. Established in 1272, it originally served as a Benedictine abbey before being taken over by the Cistercians. The abbey features Gothic architectural elements and offers a picturesque view of the surrounding countryside. Despite its ruinous state, Hore Abbey remains an important historical site, reflecting Ireland's rich monastic heritage.
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.
Nenagh Castle, located in Nenagh, County Tipperary, Ireland, is a historic Norman fortress dating back to the early 13th century. Constructed around 1200 by Theobald Walter, the first Chief Butler of Ireland, the castle is notable for its well-preserved round keep, which stands approximately 100 feet tall. The keep offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a significant example of medieval military architecture. Over the centuries, the castle has witnessed numerous historical events and alterations, but it retains much of its original structure, making it a fascinating site for both history enthusiasts and visitors.
The Cathedral of the Assumption in Thurles, Ireland, is a significant architectural and religious landmark. Completed in 1879, this Roman Catholic cathedral is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly. Designed in the Romanesque Revival style by architect J.J. McCarthy, the cathedral features a striking façade, a large rose window, and a prominent bell tower. Its interior is equally impressive, with intricate stained-glass windows, a majestic high altar, and detailed woodwork.
The Main Guard in Clonmel, Ireland, is a historic building originally constructed in the 1670s by James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormond. It served as the courthouse for the Palatinate of County Tipperary. This architectural gem features an elegant arcaded façade with classical columns, reflecting the Palladian style. Over the centuries, the Main Guard has undergone various changes in function, including use as a market house and commercial premises.
St Flannan's Church in Killaloe, Ireland, is a historic site with a rich heritage dating back to the 12th century. Named after St. Flannan, the first Bishop of Killaloe, the church is renowned for its unique Romanesque architecture, including intricately carved stonework and a distinctive round tower. The church is situated near the River Shannon, adding to its picturesque setting. Inside, visitors can find a beautifully preserved high cross and a collection of ancient relics that offer a glimpse into the region's ecclesiastical history.
Reginald's Tower is a historic landmark located in Waterford, Ireland. It is the oldest civic building in Ireland and has a rich history dating back to the Viking era. Originally built in the 10th century, the tower has served multiple purposes over the years, including a defensive stronghold, royal residence, and prison. Its current structure, which dates from the 13th century, is the oldest complete building in Ireland to retain its Viking name.
St John's Cathedral in Limerick, Ireland, is a remarkable example of Gothic Revival architecture. Completed in 1861, the cathedral boasts the tallest spire in the country, standing at 94 meters (308 feet). Designed by English architect Philip Charles Hardwick, it features intricate stained glass windows and impressive interior woodwork.
Limerick City Gallery of Art, located in Limerick, Ireland, is one of the country's leading contemporary art galleries. Housed in the historic Carnegie Building, the gallery offers an extensive collection of Irish art, including works from the 18th century to the present day. It features a diverse range of exhibitions, showcasing both established and emerging artists. The gallery also hosts educational programs, workshops, and events aimed at engaging the local community and fostering appreciation for the visual arts.
Killaloe Cathedral, also known as St. Flannan's Cathedral, is a historic church located in Killaloe, County Clare, Ireland. The cathedral is named after St. Flannan, the first Bishop of Killaloe, who lived in the 7th century. The current structure dates back to the 12th century and showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Notable features include its intricately carved Romanesque doorway, high tower, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Holy Trinity Church, located in Cork, Ireland, is a notable architectural and historical landmark. This Roman Catholic church, also known as the Father Mathew Memorial Church, was completed in the late 19th century and showcases a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The church is dedicated to the Holy Trinity and was built to commemorate the temperance reformer Theobald Mathew. Its striking features include a tall spire, intricate stone carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Holy Cross Abbey is a restored Cistercian monastery located in Thurles, County Tipperary, Ireland. Founded in 1180 by Donal Mór O'Brien, the King of Thomond, the abbey became an important site of pilgrimage due to its relic of the True Cross. The abbey's architecture combines Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring a striking stone facade, intricate carvings, and a serene cloister. Over the centuries, Holy Cross Abbey experienced periods of decline and restoration, with significant renovations undertaken in the 1970s.
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.
Ballysaggartmore Towers, located near Lismore in County Waterford, Ireland, are an intriguing set of ornamental towers and a gate lodge that date back to the 19th century. These Gothic-style structures were commissioned by Arthur Kiely-Ussher and built between 1834 and 1849. Intended to impress, the towers were part of a grandiose plan for a mansion that was never completed, leaving the towers as a testament to the ambitions of their creator.
Ballycarbery Castle is a partially ruined castle located near Cahersiveen in County Kerry, Ireland. Dating back to the 16th century, it was once a stronghold of the McCarthy clan. The castle features a striking structure with remnants of high walls and large windows, giving a glimpse into its former grandeur. Overlooking the scenic waters of the Valentia River, Ballycarbery Castle is enveloped by lush greenery, creating a picturesque and evocative site that captures the imagination of visitors.
Desmond Castle in Kinsale, Ireland, is a historic tower house built in the early 16th century. Originally constructed by the Earl of Desmond, the castle has served various purposes over the centuries, including a customs house, prison, and workhouse. Notably, it was used to imprison captured American sailors during the American Revolutionary War, earning it the nickname "The French Prison" due to the number of French sailors held there.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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