Name: Black's guide to Killarney and the south of Ireland
Author: Adam and Charles Black (Firm)

Kilcolman Castle: Spenser, Raleigh, and the Faery Queen

Kilcolman · townland · Kerry · 1589–1598

Edmund Spenser took up residence at Kilcolman Castle on the forfeited Desmond estates, calling the river Awbeg the Mulla. He sat with Raleigh in 1589 amongst the alders by the Mulla's shore and read him the manuscript of the Faery Queen. In 1598 the castle was burned by native Irish, destroying Spenser's infant child; he escaped to London and died broken-hearted.

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out of the forfeited estates of the Earl of Desmond, and took up his abode, although it would seem much against his will, in Kilcolman Castle. The country around is very romantic, and weil suited to the fancy of the most fanciful of early English poets. The river Awbeg he terms Mulla. " Amongst the cool shades "of the green alders by the Mulla' s shore," 'he sat with Raleigh in 1589, and read to him the manuscript of his "Faery Queen." In 1598, Spencer having rendered himself obnoxious to the native Irish, was attacked in his castle, which was burned down, destroying, at the same time, his infant child. He escaped to London, and died brokenhearted.
Mallow Castle. Sir Denham Norregs, Bart,

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 6

As the companion tells it

Somewhere close to Kilcolman, Edmund Spenser took up residence in a castle on the forfeited estates of the Earl of Desmond, though it seems much against his will. He called the river Awbeg the Mulla, and in 1589 he sat with Raleigh amongst the green alders by the Mulla's shore and read him the manuscript of the Faery Queen. In 1598 the native Irish attacked the castle and burned it down, destroying Spenser's infant child. He escaped to London and died broken-hearted.

Carlow Castle blown up in 1814 for lunatic asylum

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1814

Of Carlow Castle, nothing remained save a couple of towers and the connecting wall, the rest having been blown up with gunpowder in 1814 by a medical gentleman who contemplated converting it into a lunatic asylum. Seward earlier described it as standing on an eminence overhanging the Barrow with round towers at each angle.

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Of the castle nothing now stands save a couple of towers and the connecting wall, the rest having been blown up with gunpowder by a medical gentleman, who, in 1814, contemplated converting it into a lunatic asylum. Seward, who writes fifteen years before this event, describes the castle as it stood within the memory of many now living. " On an eminence," says he, "overhanging the river Barroiv, stands an old castle of an oblong square area, with large round towers at each angle, which has a fine effect."
THE COUNTY KILKENNY borders on Carlow, which it more than doubles in extent and population, containing an area of 803 square miles, or 513,686 acres, and a population, according to the census of 1851, of 139,934. Scarcely a sixteenth part of the county is uncultivated. Two members are returned to Parliament for the county, and one for the county town. Coal mines are wrought in the north of the county, and a hard mountain limestone, abounding in molluscous remains, is plentiful, and well known as Kilkenny marble.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

Earl of Kildare burns Cashel Cathedral

Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1495

In 1495 the Earl of Kildare set fire to Cashel Cathedral intending to destroy Archbishop Creagh. His candid confession reportedly convinced King Henry of his honesty, leading to his appointment as lord-lieutenant of Ireland.

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effacing finger" has swept the lines. The gilding as well has faded from their capitals. As it is, however, few could credit the beauty and magnificence evidenced by these walls. The existence of a stone roof has tended wonderfully to preserve from decay the carvings on the arches and capitals. The cathedral is of a later date, being built in the pointed style. In the year 1495 the turbulent Earl of Kildare, desiring to destroy Archbishop Creagh, set fire to the cathedral. It is recorded that — " He readily confessed his guilt, and added 'that he never would have done it, but that he thought the Archbishop was within at the time.' The candour and simplicity of his confession convinced king Henry that he could not be capable of the intrigues and duplicity with which he was charged ; and when the Bishop of Meath concluded the last article of the impeachment with the remarkable words, ' you see all Ireland cannot rule this gentleman,' the king instantly replied, ' Then he shall rule all Ireland,' and forthwith appointed him to the lord-lieutenancy of that kingdom." The cathedral is a conspicuous object for a considerable distance round. Divine service continued to be performed within until the time of Archbishop Price, who in 1752 removed the roof from the choir7 and converted the whole into a ruin. " The extent of the nave and choir from west to east is about two hundred feet, and the steeple is in the centre of the cross." The round tower, like most others, has no written history. " The city," says Seward. " was originally surrounded by a wall, which though now mouldering, seems to have been of better materials than the generality of such enclosures ; two gates are still remaining of tolerable workmanship." In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the rock, and put to death all the clergy he could find.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you come through Cashel, the cathedral up on the rock is hard to miss. In 1495 the Earl of Kildare set fire to it, meaning to destroy Archbishop Creagh. He readily confessed his guilt and added, in words from the source, "that he never would have done it, but that he thought the Archbishop was within at the time." The candour of that confession convinced King Henry he could not be capable of the intrigues he was charged with. When the Bishop of Meath finished the last article of impeachment with the words, "you see all Ireland cannot rule this gentleman," the king replied, "Then he shall rule all Ireland," and appointed him lord-lieutenant. The cathedral is built in the pointed style, and its stone roof has helped preserve the carvings on the arches and capitals. Divine service continued inside until Archbishop Price removed the roof from the choir in 1752 and turned the whole into a ruin. The nave and choir run about 200 feet from west to east, with the steeple at the centre of the cross. The round tower, like most others, has no written history. In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the rock and put to death all the clergy he could find.

Hore Abbey founded by Archbishop MacCarvill

Hore Abbey · ecclesiastical site · Tipperary · 1272

In 1272 Archbishop David MacCarvill, claiming he dreamt the Benedictines planned to behead him, banished them and installed Cistercian monks at Hore Abbey, endowing it with the Benedictines' forfeited lands.

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Sore Abbey is situated under the cathedral. It was called 11 St. Mary's Abbey of the Bock," and founded for Benedictines. In 1272 David MacCarvill, who was archbishop of Cashel, being, as he told his mother, forewarned in a dream that the black monks or Benedictines intended to cut off his head, banished them, and supplied their places with monks of the Cistercian order, for whom he founded Hore Abbey, and endowed it with the forfeited lands of the Benedictines. A stone is pointed out to the visitor a little way from the round tower, which is said to be that on which the Irish kings were crowned. Tradition states that the original stone, which had the power of uttering a groan when pressed by a royal personage, was lent to Fergus, king of Albanian Scots, for his coronation, and never returned to Ireland. The Scottish throne- stone was stolen, and placed in Westminster. Guides open the gates of the abbey for visi-
32 DUBLIN TO CORK.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 15

Tomb of Earl of Ormond and his warlike Countess

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1500–1599

In Kilkenny Cathedral stands the tomb of Peter Butler, eighth Earl of Ormond, and his formidable Countess, a Fitzgerald known to the Irish as Moryhyhead Ghearhodh. She levied black mail on less powerful neighbours and was always attended by numerous armed vassals. Both died in the sixteenth century.

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Among the monumental remains is the tomb of Peter Butler, eighth Earl of Ormond, and his termagant Countess, known by the Irish as Moryhyhead Ghearhodh. They both died in the sixteenth century. The Countess was a Fitzgerald, and warlike as any of the race. " She was always attended by numerous vassals well clothed and accoutred, and composing a formidable army." It is related that she levied black mail on her less powerful neighbours, much in the style of Rob Boy. There is a cenotaph to the memory of Dr. Pococke, bishop of Meath, who, while connected with Kilkenny, did much towards the restoration of St. Canice's Cathedral.
St. John's, known as the Lantern of Ireland, from the number of its windows, is now used as a parish church. Black Abbey is also an interesting ruin. It would be impossible within our limits to notice all the ruins and memorials with which Kilkenny abounds, or to do full justice to those which we do notice. Days may be well spent in searching them out, Kilkenny was the birth-place of " Banim, one of the first of the novelists." At Kilkenny several trials for witchcraft have

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 17

Castletownroche Castle and the 1649 siege

Castletownroche · town · Cork · 1649

Castletownroche is a fair town with castle ruins on a rock overlooking the river Awbeg, formerly the seat of the Roches, Lords of Fermoy. In 1649 a Parliamentarian battery was erected at Campfield across the river, and the castle was gallantly defended for several days by Lord Roche's lady.

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Castletowneoche, 8 m. distant fGr from Butt evant. A fair town, with the ruins of a castle, once the seat of the Roches, Lords of Fernioy. The castle is built on a rock, and overlooks the river Awbeg. On the opposite side of the river is a field known as Campfield, " from whenpe a battery was erected by a party of the Parliament's forces anno 1649, against the castle, which was then defended by the lady of Lord Roche for several days in a very gallant manner. This lord refused a composition for his estate from 0. Cromwell, About 1 mile distant from Castletownroche is the castle of Carrignacenny; at Bridgetown, about the same distance, is the ruin of an abbey founded in 1314 by Alexander Fitz-hugh Roche,
whose tomb is near the grand altar.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 6

Kildare: St. Brigid's nunnery and inextinguishable fire

Kildare · town · Kildare · 500–1540

St. Brigid founded a nunnery at Kildare, where a cell in which she kept an 'inextinguishable fire' is still pointed out. The nuns kept the fire burning for nearly eight centuries until Archbishop Henry had it extinguished in 1220; it was rekindled and finally put out in the reign of Henry VIII.

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Kildare. though bearing the same name, is not the county town. The convert Bridget or Bridgid. after assisting St Conl?eth to found a monastery, set about the building of a nunnery. A cell in which she kept the "inextinguishable fire'-' is still pointed out. The nuns, in imitation of the "Vestal Virgins." kept the fire burning for nearly 'eight centuries. until Harry. Archbishop of London, had it extinguished in 1220 : it was afterwards rekindled, and finally put out in th~ reign of Henry Till. In 638, Aod Dulh, or black Hugh,
2b DUBLIN TO CORK.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 12

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Kildare, this town shares its name with the county but was never the county town. St. Bridgid, after helping St. Conleth found a monastery here, built a nunnery. A cell where she kept an "inextinguishable fire" is still pointed out. The nuns, in imitation of the Vestal Virgins, kept that fire burning for nearly eight centuries, until Archbishop Henry had it extinguished in 1220. It was rekindled afterwards, and finally put out in the reign of Henry VIII.

Witchcraft execution at Antrim in 1699

near Antrim · town · Antrim · 1699

An execution for witchcraft took place at Antrim in 1699, believed to be the last on record in Ireland. The particulars were printed in a pamphlet entitled 'The Bewitching of a Child in Ireland' and later copied by Professor Sinclair.

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* The following is a paragraph from a letter by Mr. Croften Croker, on the subject of witchcraft in Ireland, published in the Dublin Journal : — " Ireland has been, in my opinion, unjustly stigmatized as a barbarous and superstitions country. It is certain that the cruel persecution carried on against poor and ignorant old women was as nothing in Ireland when compared with other countries. In addition to the three executions at Kilkenny, a town the inhabitants of which were almost entirely either English settlers or of English descent. I only remember to have met with an account of one other execution for the crime of witchcraft. The latter took place at Antrim in 1699. and it is. I believe, the last on record. The particulars of this silly tragedy were printed in a pamphlet entitled, ' The Bewitching of a Child in Ireland,' and from thence copied by Professor Sinclair, in his work entitled, ' Satan's Invisible World Discovered/ which is frequently referred to by Sir Walter Scott in his Letters on Demonologv."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 17

Cromwell besieges and takes Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1650

In March 1650 Cromwell invested Kilkenny, opened cannon on the castle, and effected a breach on the 25th, but was twice repulsed. The mayor and townsmen admitted Cromwell, and Sir Walter Butler capitulated on honourable terms to save the people from massacre.

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The castle is still in possession of the family of Butler, descendants of the Ormonds. The appearance at the present day conveys the idea of comfort and elegance, as well as strength. The towers and bastions have been lately reeastellated. and the whole structure brought into a state of general repair. The building, with the exception of three massive towers, is of modern construction. The interior decorations are modern in style. Two valuable paintings by Vandyke, of Charles and Henrietta, are much admired, as also a portrait of one of the Marchionesses of Ormond. In 1319 James Butler, third Earl of Orruond, purchased the castle from the Pembroke family, and with his descendants it has remained until the present day. Richard II. spent two weeks in it with the Earl in 1399. In March 1650, Cromwell having invested the city, opened his cannon upon the castle, H and a breach was effected on the 25th, about mid-day; but the besiegers were twice gallantly repulsed, and the breach was quickly repaired." The mayor and townsmen having traitorously admitted Cromwell into the city, and the latter being joined by Ireton, Sir Walter Butler judged it expedient, in order to save the people from massacre, to capitulate, which he did upon honourable terms, being complimented, as he marched, on his stout resistance, by Cromwell, who remarked, that he had " lost more men in storming that place than in taking Drogheda, and that he should have gone without it, had it not been for the treachery of the townsmen."
St. Canice Cathedral is the most interesting anions; the manv

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

Fairy well legend south-west of Cork

Cork · city · Cork

A piece of water south-west of Cork town is the scene of one of Crofton Croker's fairy legends. Tradition held that a small fairy well covered by a stone would inundate the valley if the stone were not replaced each morning. A neglectful princess forgot, causing the destruction of her father and his people.

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To the south-west of the town is a piece of water, only interesting as the scene of one of Croft on Croker's fairy legends. "He says that it was once a small fairy well, covered by a stone, concerning which a tradition had been handed down from remote times, which predicted, that if the stone which covered the well were not replaced every morning after the dwellers in the valley had taken from it their daily supply of water, a torrent would rush forth and inundate the valley, and drown all the inhabitants. This calamity was at length incurred by a certain princess, who, neglecting the injunction, forgot to close the mouth of the well, and caused the destruction of her father and his people."
Few towns in Ireland can boast a wider range of ably supported benevolent and charitable institutions than Cork. Besides a savings bank and two charitable loan societies, it has infirmaries and hospitals for fever, lunacy, and other infirmities. It can boast no less than eight scientific institutions. In justice we are bound to confess, as a proof of the destitution and improvidence which prevails, that there are no less than thirty-three pawnbrokers within the city.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 22

Perkin Warbeck received in Cork with regal honours

Cork · city · Cork · 1493

In 1493, the impostor Perkin Warbeck was received in Cork with regal honours. As punishment, the deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its ancient charter, which was restored in 1609.

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Cork frequently devastated the whole country round, and was in turn punished by the neighbouring chiefs. The English settlers who had obtained a footing were held in great dislike by the natives, who for several centuries looked upon them as lawful spoil. The M'Carthys and O'Mahonys were ancient proprietors of the country. In 1493, Perkin "Warbeck, the impostor king, was received in Cork with regal honours, in reward for which, the deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its then ancient charter, which was restored to it in 1609. Ralph Holingshed the chronicler, whose works were published in 1577, thus describes the state of the city of Cork.
" On the land side they are encumbered with evil neighbours — the Irish outlaws, that they are fain to watch their gates hourlie, to keep them shut at serTice-time, and at meales, from sun to sun, nor suffer anie stranger to enter the citie with his weapon, but the same to leave at a lodge appointed. They walk out at seasons for recreation with power of men furnished. They trust not the country adjoining, but match in wedloeke among themselves onlie, so that the wnole citie is well nigh linked one to the other in affinitie."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, you are moving through a city with a long and troubled past. The land around it was often devastated by the Irish, and in turn punished by the neighbouring chiefs. The M'Carthys and O'Mahonys were the ancient proprietors of the country. English settlers who had gained a foothold were held in great dislike by the natives, who for centuries looked on them as lawful spoil. In 1493, Perkin Warbeck, the impostor king, was received in Cork with regal honours. The reward for that welcome was severe. The deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its ancient charter. That charter was not restored until 1609. Ralph Holingshed the chronicler, whose works were published in 1577, described the state of the city. He wrote that on the land side they were encumbered with evil neighbours, the Irish outlaws, so that they were fain to watch their gates hourly, to keep them shut at service time and at meals, from sun to sun, and to suffer no stranger to enter the city with his weapon. They walked out at seasons for recreation with power of men furnished. They trusted not the country adjoining, but matched in wedlock among themselves only, so that the whole city was well nigh linked one to the other in affinity.

Franciscan abbey at Youghal founded 1224

Youghal · town · Cork · 1224

A Franciscan abbey was founded at Youghal in 1224 by Maurice Fitzgerald. Tradition holds that it was originally intended as a castle, but Fitzgerald converted it into a monastery to punish his son's abusive behaviour toward the workmen.

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YOUGHAL is 28 miles from Cork, and is conveniently reached by coach. It lies to the east of the county on the River Blackwater, which separates it from the county Waterford. Above Youghal, the Blackwater has its course through the last named county. Here a Franciscan abbey was founded in 1224 by Maurice Fitzgerald. Archdall gives the tradition, that a castle was intended originally by the founder ; that the men engaged in the work requested some money to drink their employer's health. He desired his son to give it to them, who fell upon the men in abusive terms, which so provoked Maurice, that, to punish the pride of his son, he had the structure converted into a monastery. A portion of the church
56 CORK — KILLAPwXET.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 28

Gougane Barra: St. Fionn Bar's island hermitage

near Gougane Barra · population centre · Cork

Gougane Barra is a solitary mountain lake (Lough Allua) of 250 acres, dotted with rocky islets and surrounded by precipitous rocks. St. Fionn Bar lived on an island connected to the shore by a rude causeway, and a well there is believed to possess peculiar virtues, drawing pilgrims twice yearly.

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GOUGANE BARRA, the wild home of the saintly founder of Cork, is a solitary mountain lake, formed by the expansion of the river Lea near its source. The lake is properly called Lough Allua; it covers an area of 250 acres, and is picturesquely dotted with little rocky islets. On three sides of the lake rise high and precipitous rocks. The island on which lived the pious St. Fionn Bar, is connected with the shore by a rude artificial causeway, and hence the name Gougane Barra, which literally signifies the " Causeway of Barra." The well is supposed to possess peculiar virtues, and a pilgrimage is made to it twice every year. The scenes enacted at these patrons are often of too gross a nature to be tolerated, and consequently the Roman Catholic clergy have discountenanced them. From Gougane Barra the tourist may proceed either to Bantry or GlengarifT by the
Pass of Kamaneigli, a rugged ravine, through which rushes a mountain torrent.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 40

Monasterevan Abbey and St. Even's sanctuary

Monasterevin · town · Kildare · 600–700

Monasterevan is named for an abbey founded by St. Even in the early seventh century. The abbey held sanctuary privileges and its consecrated bell was historically sworn upon.

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So called from an abbey founded by St. Even or Evan, early in the
seventh century. It exercised the privileges of sanctuary. St. Even's festival is held on the 22d of December. The consecrated bell of the saint was committed to the cus- ! tody of the hereditary | chief s of the MacEgans, j and was on all solemn j occasions sworn upon, ! as the bible is in our 'courts of justice. Pas- | sing through various ; hands, the abbey at ; length became the [ property of the Moors, : Earls of Drogheda, by J one of whom it was | repaired. It is still in • a good state of preservation. It presents a : Gothic end with a large window, and two ] strong square towers , at the sides.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 2

As the companion tells it

Coming up near Monasterevin, a town that takes its name from an abbey founded by St. Even in the early 600s. The abbey exercised the privileges of sanctuary. St. Even's festival is held on the 22nd of December. The consecrated bell of the saint was given to the custody of the hereditary chiefs of the MacEgans, and on all solemn occasions it was sworn upon, as the Bible is in courts of justice. Passing through various hands, the abbey at length became the property of the Moors, Earls of Drogheda, by one of whom it was repaired. It is still in a good state of preservation. It presents a Gothic end with a large window, and two strong square towers at the sides.

Monkstown Castle built for a groat

Monkstown · townland · Cork · 1636

Monkstown Castle, now a ruin, was built in 1636. Anastatia Goold, wife of John Archdeken, built the castle while her husband served abroad in the army of Philip of Spain, allegedly covering all building expenses except fourpence through retail profits on provisions sold to workmen.

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MONKSTOWN is situated about a mile from Passage, and beyond it the river widens out into a lake. The castle which is now a ruin, was built in 1636. The story of its erection is curious, and we take the liberty of extracting it from Hall's celebrated work, Hibernia Illustrate.
<( Anastatia Goold, who had become the wife of John Archdeken, determined, while her husband was abroad serving in the army of Phillip of Spain, to give him evidence of her thrift on his return, by surprising him with a noble residence which he might call his own. Her plan was to supply the workmen with provisions and other articles they required, for which" she charged the ordinary price, but as she had made her purchases wholesale, upon balancing her "accounts it appeared that the retail profit had paid all the expenses of the structure except fourpence."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 24

Inchiquin storms the Rock of Cashel

Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1647

In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the Rock of Cashel and put to death all the clergy he could find, a violent episode in the Confederate Wars.

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effacing finger" has swept the lines. The gilding as well has faded from their capitals. As it is, however, few could credit the beauty and magnificence evidenced by these walls. The existence of a stone roof has tended wonderfully to preserve from decay the carvings on the arches and capitals. The cathedral is of a later date, being built in the pointed style. In the year 1495 the turbulent Earl of Kildare, desiring to destroy Archbishop Creagh, set fire to the cathedral. It is recorded that — " He readily confessed his guilt, and added 'that he never would have done it, but that he thought the Archbishop was within at the time.' The candour and simplicity of his confession convinced king Henry that he could not be capable of the intrigues and duplicity with which he was charged ; and when the Bishop of Meath concluded the last article of the impeachment with the remarkable words, ' you see all Ireland cannot rule this gentleman,' the king instantly replied, ' Then he shall rule all Ireland,' and forthwith appointed him to the lord-lieutenancy of that kingdom." The cathedral is a conspicuous object for a considerable distance round. Divine service continued to be performed within until the time of Archbishop Price, who in 1752 removed the roof from the choir7 and converted the whole into a ruin. " The extent of the nave and choir from west to east is about two hundred feet, and the steeple is in the centre of the cross." The round tower, like most others, has no written history. " The city," says Seward. " was originally surrounded by a wall, which though now mouldering, seems to have been of better materials than the generality of such enclosures ; two gates are still remaining of tolerable workmanship." In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the rock, and put to death all the clergy he could find.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you come through Cashel, the Rock rises above the town, and the cathedral on it is a conspicuous object for a considerable distance round. The walls hold carvings of beauty and magnificence that few could credit, preserved from decay by a stone roof over the arches and capitals. The cathedral was built in the pointed style, and divine service continued within until Archbishop Price removed the roof from the choir in 1752 and converted the whole into a ruin. The nave and choir run about 200 feet from west to east, with the steeple at the centre of the cross. The round tower, like most others, has no written history. In 1495 the turbulent Earl of Kildare, desiring to destroy Archbishop Creagh, set fire to the cathedral. He readily confessed his guilt, and added, "that he never would have done it, but that he thought the Archbishop was within at the time." The candour and simplicity of his confession convinced King Henry that he could not be capable of the intrigues and duplicity with which he was charged. When the Bishop of Meath concluded the last article of the impeachment with the remarkable words, "you see all Ireland cannot rule this gentleman," the king instantly replied, "Then he shall rule all Ireland," and appointed him to the lord-lieutenancy. The city was originally surrounded by a wall, now mouldering but of better materials than most such enclosures, with two gates still remaining of tolerable workmanship. In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the rock, and put to death all the clergy he could find.

William Penn's conversion to Quakerism in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 1650–1670

William Penn, the father of Pennsylvania, became a convert to Quakerism in Cork after visiting to look after his father's property. He changed his religion under the preaching of Thomas Loe and was imprisoned with eighteen fellow converts.

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It was in Cork that William Penn. the father of Pennsylvania, became a convert to Quakerism. He visited the city in order to look after some of his father's property., and changed his religion under the preaching of one Thomas Loe. He" was thrown into prison with eighteen fellow converts, but soon after released.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, this is where William Penn, the father of Pennsylvania, became a convert to Quakerism. He visited the city to look after some of his father's property, and changed his religion under the preaching of Thomas Loe. He was thrown into prison with eighteen fellow converts, but soon after released.

Bishop Berkeley and the see of Cloyne

Cloyne · town · Cork · 1734–1753

Bishop Berkeley, the celebrated immaterialist philosopher praised by Pope, held the see of Cloyne during the time of George II. Born in Thomastown in 1684, he was consecrated Bishop of Cloyne in 1734 and died at Oxford in 1753.

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'•' Bishop Berkeley says there is no matter, "Which proves it is no matter what he says." held the see in the time of George II. He was a native of Thomastown, born in 1684, attended the same school in Kilkenny as Swift had done, obtained a fellowship in Trinity College. Dublin, was" chaplain to the Earl of Peterborough on his embassy to Italy and Sicily, obtained in 1724 the deanery of Deny, visited Bermuda for the purpose of establishing a college for native teachers, and was eventually consecrated Bishop of "Cloyne in 17-34. He died at Oxford in 1753,
In the churchyard adjoining the cathedral are the ruins of a little building known as St. Coleman's Chapel. It is believed that, until within a comparatively recent period, this building contained the remains of the founder. In 707 a monastery was founded at Cloyne. Xear the church are the remains of a round tower, originally" ninety-two feet high. The summit being demolished by lightning, an embattlement has been placed round it, raising it to a height of 102 feet. Dr. Smith * gives the following account of the catastrophe : —

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 25

Coronation Stone of Irish kings at Cashel

Cashel · town · Tipperary

A stone near the round tower at Cashel is traditionally identified as the coronation stone of Irish kings. Legend holds the original stone groaned when pressed by a royal personage and was lent to Fergus, king of Albanian Scots, never to be returned.

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Sore Abbey is situated under the cathedral. It was called 11 St. Mary's Abbey of the Bock," and founded for Benedictines. In 1272 David MacCarvill, who was archbishop of Cashel, being, as he told his mother, forewarned in a dream that the black monks or Benedictines intended to cut off his head, banished them, and supplied their places with monks of the Cistercian order, for whom he founded Hore Abbey, and endowed it with the forfeited lands of the Benedictines. A stone is pointed out to the visitor a little way from the round tower, which is said to be that on which the Irish kings were crowned. Tradition states that the original stone, which had the power of uttering a groan when pressed by a royal personage, was lent to Fergus, king of Albanian Scots, for his coronation, and never returned to Ireland. The Scottish throne- stone was stolen, and placed in Westminster. Guides open the gates of the abbey for visi-
32 DUBLIN TO CORK.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cashel, there is a stone near the round tower that is said to be the one on which the Irish kings were crowned. Tradition holds that the original stone had a strange power. It would utter a groan when pressed by a royal personage. That original stone was lent to Fergus, king of the Albanian Scots, for his own coronation, and it was never returned to Ireland. The Scottish throne stone was later stolen and placed in Westminster. The stone stands close to Hore Abbey, which sits under the cathedral. The abbey was first called Saint Mary's Abbey of the Rock and was founded for Benedictines. In 1272, David MacCarvill, archbishop of Cashel, told his mother he had been forewarned in a dream that the black monks intended to cut off his head. He banished them and brought in Cistercian monks instead, founding Hore Abbey for them and endowing it with the forfeited lands of the Benedictines.

Cromwell's siege of Clonmel cost 2000 men

Clonmel · town · Tipperary · 1650

Cromwell came so near giving up the siege of Clonmel, which had already cost him 2000 men. He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which only ruins remained at the time of writing.

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Clonmel is a station on the Waterford and Limerick Eailway, 27J miles from the junction and 134J from Dublin. This is now the chief town of the county. It is famous as being the birth-place of Sterne. " Clonmel consists of four streets ; it has a bridge of twenty arches over the Suir." The markethouse is good. Several charities exist in the town. The name is accounted for by a tradition which states that a few of the gigantic inhabitants of early Ireland wanted a place to build a camp upon, and let off a swarm of bees, in order to settle on the spot selected by them. The bees, it is said, came down on a spot near the site of the present town, and on it was erected an ancient circular fort, seen at the present day. The spot then assumed the name of Cluainmealla, the " Plain of Honey." On this circular mound a castle was built at a later period. It was here that Cromwell was so near giving up the siege which had already cost him 2000 men. " He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which now only the ruins remain." The Gothic church has not shared the same fate as that on the Bock of Cashel. It is still used as a place of worship, and is consequently kept in good repair. The steeple is octagonal and embattled. Xear the top of it are Gothic openings in each of the eight sides.
34 DUBLIN TO CORK.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

Coming up is Clonmel, the chief town of the county. In 1650 Cromwell came so near giving up the siege here, which had already cost him 2000 men. He demolished the castles and fortifications, and only ruins remained at the time of writing. The town stands on the Suir, with a bridge of twenty arches. It consists of four streets. It is famous as the birthplace of Sterne. The market house is good, and several charities exist in the town. The name comes from a tradition. A few of the gigantic inhabitants of early Ireland wanted a place to build a camp. They let off a swarm of bees, which came down on a spot near the site of the present town. An ancient circular fort was built there, still seen at the time of writing. The place was called Cluain-mealla, the Plain of Honey. On that mound a castle was built at a later period. The Gothic church fared better than the one on the Rock of Cashel. It was still used as a place of worship and kept in good repair. The steeple is octagonal and embattled, with Gothic openings near the top on each of the eight sides.

Drake's Pool and the Spanish pursuit

Drake's Pool · minor feature · Cork

Drake retreated into Cork Harbour when hotly pursued by the Spanish fleet, sailing into a creek called Crosshaven where he was hidden so effectively that the Spaniards spent days in fruitless search. The spot is still known as Drake's Pool.

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THE HARBOUR OF CORK is one of the most extensive and commodious in the United Kingdom, being capable of affording shelter to the entire British navy. Into it, Drake retreated when hotly pursued by the Spanish fleet. Crosshaven is the name of the creek into which he sailed, and where he was so effectually hidden, that the Spaniards were completely lost in conjecture as to his whereabouts, and actually spent days in fruitless search for him in the river, concluding that nothing short of magic could have taken him so suddenly out of their grasp. The spot is to this day known as" Drake's Pool." Every tourist who has sailed down the Cork River so far as the harbour, is enthusiastic in his praise of the scenery. Arthur Young states, that " the country on the harbour, he thought preferable in many respects to anything he had seen in Ireland."' Another author states, that :,no part of the scenery is barren or uninteresting ; a perpetual variety is presented along the whole course. The eye, whilst lingering over some happy picture, is continually attracted by some new succession possessing all the charms of the most romantic landscape,'1 and Mflner says, that " neither the Severn at Chepstow. nor the sea at Southampton are to be compared to it."
Dr. Scott of Cork writes that "the salubrity of the climate is such that it has been chosen as a residence by many invalids who would otherwise have sought the far off scenes of Montpellier or Madeira, with their vehement suns and less temperate vicissitudes of climate. The many recoveries here have justified the selection, and proved the restoring and invigorating principles of the atmosphere. An admirable equability of climate, and an absence of sudden and violent interruptions, are the great characteristics which have so beneficially marked out this town to the ailing and debilitated, and established its reputation."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 24

Kate Kearney's Cottage at the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe

near Gap of Dunloe · pass · Kerry

A cottage at the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe is traditionally said to have been inhabited by the celebrated beauty Kate Kearney. It is now occupied by her reputed granddaughter of the same name, where goats' milk seasoned with potheen may be offered to visitors for a gratuity.

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Thus the letter D, Duir, is the name for the oak ; 0, Oun, is the broom ; U, Z7r, is the heath, and I, Idolho, is the yew tree. ^The cottage said to have been inhabited by the celebrated beauty Kate Kearney stands invitingly at the entrance to the Gap. It is now inhabited by the reputed granddaughter of the heroine, who conveniently bears the same name, although not the same charms as her prototype. Goats' milk, seasoned with a little potheen, will in all likelihood be offered here, and a gratuity received in return.
THE GAP OF DUNLOE is one of those notable places about which there exists so much diversity of opinion. It is a wild and narrow mountain pass, between the range of hills known as Macgillicuddy's Reeks, and the Purple Mountain, which is a shoulder of the Tomies. The entire length of the defile is about four miles. The principal feature of the pass is the height of the rocks which bound it, compared with the narrow tract of road, and the insignificant streamlet which courses through it. We will quote the accounts of two distinguished writers. " On either hand," writes Sterling Coyne, "the craggy cliffs, composed of huge masses of projecting rocks, suspend fearfully over the narrow pathway, and at every step threaten with destruction the adventurous explorer of this desolate scene. In the interstices of these immense fragments, a few shrubs and trees shoot out in fantastic shapes, which, with the dark ivy and luxuriant heather, contribute to the picturesque effect of the landscape. A small but rapid stream called the Loe, traverses the whole length of the glen, expanding itself at different points into five small lakes, each having its proper name, but which are known in the aggregate as the Cummeen Tlwmeen Lakes. The road, which is a mere * Hall's Hibernia Illustrata.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 30

Ancient names of Waterford: Haven of the Sun and Valley of Lamentation

Waterford · city · Waterford

Waterford's ancient name was Cuanna-Frioth, meaning Haven of the Sun. It was later called Gleann-na-Gleodh, or Valley of Lamentation, due to tremendous conflicts between the Irish and the Danes, and was also named from its shape the Port of the Thigh by old Irish authors.

Read the passage

Waterford City is seventy-seven miles from Limerick, fifty-five from the Limerick junction, and 181 or 113 from Dublin, according as the junction may be Kildare or Limerick. By the former route Tipperary, Cahir, Clonmel, and Carrick, are passed, by the latter Carlow and Kilkenny. The ancient name of Waterford was Cuanna-Frioth, or the Haven of the Sun. "It was afterwards called Gleann-na- Gleodh, or Valle)T of Lamentation, from the tremendous conflicts between the Irish and the Danes. By old Irish authors it is frequently named, from its shape, the Port of the Thigh. Its historical record states, that it was founded in 155, but made a considerable town under Sitric in 853."* On the lower end of the quay is a Danish tower, known as Eeginald's Tower, from the founder Eeginald, son of Imar ; it was built in 1003. In 1171, when Strongbow and Eaymond le Gros took Waterford, it was inhabited by Danes who, with the exception of the Prince of the Danes, and a few more, were put to death. It was here that Earl Strongbow was married to Eva, daughter of the king of Leinster, and here too that Henry II. first landed in Ireland. There is a good quay on the Suir at Waterford. The distance from Liverpool is 229 miles.
Steamers sail backwards and forwards once a-week. Tares 10s., steward's fee 2s. 6d. Between Waterford and Bristol steamers ply once a-week, Tares 14s. and 10s.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 18

Bianconi established car travel system from Clonmel

Clonmel · town · Tipperary

Mr. Bianconi established his system of cheap and expeditious car travelling in Clonmel, from which it radiated over the south and west of Ireland. The rate of travelling was about six to seven Irish miles per hour, with fares averaging three-halfpence to twopence halfpenny per mile.

Read the passage

The Gothic tracery of the east window has been much admired, being thought by some superior to that of the windows of Holy Cross. The base of the steeple is square, and seems to be of a much older date than any other portion of the building. At the opposite side of the church is another square building, similar in every respect to the base of the steeple. It requires no great stretch of imagination to conceive that these are the remains of a building, ecclesiastical or baronial, of great antiquity. The churchyard is in a great measure encompassed by the old city wall. At intervals on it are observable the remains of square towers. Various fine walks are to be had in the neighbourhood of the town. The favourite promenade is Fairy Hill Road. Heywood affords a pleasant walk, as also the AVilderness and the Quay. One of the holy wells of St. Patrick exists in the vicinage of Clonmel. but few pilgrims visit it now. The Countess of Blessington was a native of Clonmel. It was here that Mr. Bianconi established his system of cheap and expeditious car travelling, and from hence it has radiated over the south and west of Ireland. The rate of travelling is about six to seven Irish miles per hour, and the fares average about three-halfpence to twopence halfpenny per mile. In fine weather no style of travelling could be more exhilarating. — See Appendix.
Carrick-on-Suir is the next station after Clonmel. It is 41 miles from the Limerick junction, 14 from Waterford, and 168 from Dublin. This town is situated on the outside of Tipperary. being united to the County "Waterford by a bridge over the Suir, and within a few minutes' walk of the county Kilkenny. " The castle and park adjoining," writes Seward, " belong to the Butler family ; but both are now neglected. It was formerly a walled town, and part of the wall still remains. The woollen manufacture is carried on here very extensively, both of broad-cloths and rateens. It has a barrack for two troops of horse, and gives title of Earl to a branch of the Butler family, as it did formerly to the Duke of Ormond."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

As the road brings you through Clonmel in Tipperary, this is the town where Mr. Bianconi established his system of cheap and expeditious car travelling. From here it radiated over the south and west of Ireland. The rate of travelling was about 6 to 7 Irish miles per hour, and the fares averaged about three-halfpence to twopence halfpenny per mile. In fine weather no style of travelling could be more exhilarating. Clonmel itself holds older traces. The Gothic tracery of the east window has been much admired, thought by some superior to that of the windows of Holy Cross. The base of the steeple is square and seems to be of a much older date than any other portion of the building. At the opposite side of the church is another square building, similar in every respect to the base of the steeple. These may be the remains of a building, ecclesiastical or baronial, of great antiquity. The churchyard is in great measure encompassed by the old city wall, with the remains of square towers observable at intervals on it. The favourite promenade is Fairy Hill Road. Heywood affords a pleasant walk, as do the Wilderness and the Quay. One of the holy wells of St. Patrick exists in the vicinage of Clonmel, but few pilgrims visit it now. The Countess of Blessington was a native of the town.

Rock of Cashel and the descent of the Macarthys

near Rock of Cashel · rock or rocks · Tipperary

The Rock of Cashel was the ancient habitation of chiefs called Hy dun-na-moi, meaning 'chiefs of the hill of the plain,' a name later corrupted into O'Donahue. In later ages they were called Cartheigh, or inhabitants of the rock, from whom descended the Macarthys, hereditary chiefs of the district.

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The Rode of Casliel was the ancient habitation of the chiefs of the Magh Peimin. who were thence called Hy dun-na-moi. or " chiefs of the hill of the plain," a name which afterwards became corrupted into 0' Donahue. " In later ages they were distinguished by the name of Cartheigh, or inhabitants of the rock, whence descended the Macarthys, hereditary chiefs of this district/'" At present the rock of Cashel is covered with an assemblage of beautiful ruins of various dates. The most ancient of these is the chapel of Cormac MacCullinan, " at once king and archbishop of Cashel/' Cormac was born in 837 : he spent the early, and indeed the greater part of his life in a convent, composing while there the celebrated " Psalter of Cashel" about the year 900. This was a history of Ireland written in the Irish language. He was nearly seventy years of age before coming to the throne. He was soon entangled in war with the monarch Flan, which resulted in his own death in the year 90S. after a troubled reign of five years. The chapel is built of hewn stone — "both walls and roof, the sides or legs of which are tangents to a counter-arch, springing from the inner part of the walls. The doorway is in the Saxon style, which pervades also the other parts of the chapel, and is adorned with zig-zag and bead ornaments. Above the archway is the effigy of an archer in the act of shooting at an ideal animal. The ceiling or roof is of stone, groined, with square ribs springing from stunted Saxon pillars, with enriebed capitals. There is one rich Saxon arch, ornamented with grotesque heads of men and animals, placed at intervals all round from the base upwards, and a second arch within the recess or crypt, probably intended to receive the altar. The walls are relieved by blank arcades, and the ceiling by numerous grotesque heads/' The pilasters of these arcades have been originally carved, but "'time's
* " The great magician of the north arrived at Casliel on his way to the

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 14

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Rock of Cashel, the rock was once the ancient habitation of the chiefs of the Magh Peimin. They were called Hy dun-na-moi, meaning chiefs of the hill of the plain, and that name later became corrupted into O'Donahue. In later ages they were distinguished by the name Cartheigh, meaning inhabitants of the rock, and from them descended the Macarthys, the hereditary chiefs of this district. The rock itself is now covered with ruins of various dates. The most ancient is the chapel of Cormac MacCullinan, who was at once king and archbishop of Cashel. Cormac was born in 837. He spent the early and greater part of his life in a convent, and while there he composed the celebrated Psalter of Cashel about the year 900. It was a history of Ireland, written in the Irish language. He was nearly 70 years of age before he came to the throne. He was soon entangled in war with the monarch Flan, which resulted in his own death in 908, after a troubled reign of five years. The chapel is built of hewn stone, walls and roof both. The doorway is in the Saxon style, which pervades the other parts of the chapel too, and is adorned with zig-zag and bead ornaments. Above the archway is the effigy of an archer in the act of shooting at an ideal animal. The roof is of stone, groined, with square ribs springing from stunted Saxon pillars. There is one rich Saxon arch, ornamented with grotesque heads of men and animals placed at intervals all round from the base upward, and a second arch within the recess, probably intended to receive the altar.

Blarney Lake legend of white cows and hidden plate

near Blarney · townland · Cork

A tradition states that at certain seasons a herd of white cows rises from Blarney Lake to graze on its banks. Another story relates that the Earl of Clancarty cast his plate into the lake, with the secret kept among the McCarthys until a McCarthy again becomes Lord of Blarney.

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Blarney LaJce is a sweet piece of water, about a quarter of a mile from the castle. A tradition states, that at certain seasons a herd of white cows rises from the bosom of the lake to graze among the rich pasture which clothes its banks, Another story is, that the Earl of Clancarty, who forfeited the castle at the Eevolution, cast all his plate into a certain part ; that " three of the McCarthy's inherit the secret of the place where they are deposited, any one of whom dying com- * Father Prout. t MilliMn's Groves of Blarney.
CORK — FERMOY YOUGHAL. 55

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 27

Bridgetown Abbey founded 1314

Bridgetown · town · Wexford · 1314

At Bridgetown, about a mile from Castletownroche, are the ruins of an abbey founded in 1314 by Alexander Fitz-hugh Roche, whose tomb lies near the grand altar.

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Castletowneoche, 8 m. distant fGr from Butt evant. A fair town, with the ruins of a castle, once the seat of the Roches, Lords of Fernioy. The castle is built on a rock, and overlooks the river Awbeg. On the opposite side of the river is a field known as Campfield, " from whenpe a battery was erected by a party of the Parliament's forces anno 1649, against the castle, which was then defended by the lady of Lord Roche for several days in a very gallant manner. This lord refused a composition for his estate from 0. Cromwell, About 1 mile distant from Castletownroche is the castle of Carrignacenny; at Bridgetown, about the same distance, is the ruin of an abbey founded in 1314 by Alexander Fitz-hugh Roche,
whose tomb is near the grand altar.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 6

Cahir Castle taken by Essex and Cromwell

Caher · town · Tipperary · 1599–1650

Cahir Castle, built at a very remote period on the banks of the Suir, was taken by the Earl of Essex in 1599 and by Cromwell in 1650. The town was known as a 'Quaker town' with an appearance of cleanness and comfort.

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Cahir is a small town on the banks of the Suir. This is a " Quaker town," and has an appearance of cleanness and comfort. The castle was built at a very remote period, and has been at various times added to and repaired. In 1599 it was taken by the Earl of Essex, and in 1650 by Cromwell. In the neighbourhood is the seat of Lord Glengall.
Clonmel is a station on the Waterford and Limerick Eailway, 27J miles from the junction and 134J from Dublin. This is now the chief town of the county. It is famous as being the birth-place of Sterne. " Clonmel consists of four streets ; it has a bridge of twenty arches over the Suir." The markethouse is good. Several charities exist in the town. The name is accounted for by a tradition which states that a few of the gigantic inhabitants of early Ireland wanted a place to build a camp upon, and let off a swarm of bees, in order to settle on the spot selected by them. The bees, it is said, came down on a spot near the site of the present town, and on it was erected an ancient circular fort, seen at the present day. The spot then assumed the name of Cluainmealla, the " Plain of Honey." On this circular mound a castle was built at a later period. It was here that Cromwell was so near giving up the siege which had already cost him 2000 men. " He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which now only the ruins remain." The Gothic church has not shared the same fate as that on the Bock of Cashel. It is still used as a place of worship, and is consequently kept in good repair. The steeple is octagonal and embattled. Xear the top of it are Gothic openings in each of the eight sides.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

You are coming through Caher, a small town on the banks of the Suir. People have called it a Quaker town, and it has an appearance of cleanness and comfort. The castle here was built at a very remote period, and has been at various times added to and repaired. In 1599 it was taken by the Earl of Essex. In 1650 it was taken again, by Cromwell. In the neighbourhood is the seat of Lord Glengall.

Cloyne round tower struck by lightning

Cloyne · town · Cork · 707

A round tower at Cloyne, originally ninety-two feet high, had its conical top demolished by lightning on the night of January 10th, tumbling the bell and three lofts. An embattlement was added raising it to 102 feet. A monastery was founded at Cloyne in 707.

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;; On the night of the 10th of January, a flash of hghtning rent the conical top. tumbled down the hell and three lofts, forced its way through one side of the building, and drove the stones, which were admirably well" joined and locked into each other, through the roof of an adjoining stable/5

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 25

Kells monastery founded by St. Columba

Kells · townland · Kerry · 550

The ancient town of Kells on the river Blackwater sprang into existence with the founding of its monastery for canons regular around 550. The site was granted by Dermot MacCarval, son of the king of Ireland, to St. Columb or Columbkill. The name changed from Kinanue to Kenlis and eventually to Kells.

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«€* Kells, 6 m. distant. The ancient and venerable Kells, the seat of early learning and early piety, may be said to have sprung into existence with the founding of its monastery for canons regular so 'early as 550. The site of 'the abbey was granted for tins purpose by Derrnod Mac- Carval,' son of the king of Ireland, to the holy St. Columb or Columb-1 kill. The town is' situated on the river Blackwater. The name has changed from Ktnanue to Kenlis, and eventually to Kells. Informer ages it was reckoned one of the
Kilkenny.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 8

As the companion tells it

Close to Kells, you're near an ancient seat of learning and piety. The monastery here was founded for canons regular as early as 550. The site of the abbey was granted by Dermot MacCarval, son of the king of Ireland, to St. Columb, also called Columbkill. The town stands on the river Blackwater. The name has changed from Kinanue to Kenlis, and eventually to Kells. In former ages it was reckoned one of the most celebrated places in this part of Ireland.

Kells Priory, founded by Geoffrey Fitz-Robert

Kells · town · Kilkenny

Kells, near Thomastown, was founded by Geoffrey Fitz-Robert, a follower of Earl Strongbow, to garrison the subjugation of the Tipperary Irish. He founded a religious house that grew in importance until Henry VIII suppressed it; the Prior sat as a spiritual lord in Parliament. Portions of the ruins survive.

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Kelts is also reached from Thomastown Station. It is an ancient city, founded by a follower of Earl Strongbow's, called Geoffrey Fitz-Kobert, his object being to provide a garrison for the subjugation of the Tipperary Irish. Like most other of the invaders, he sought peace to his conscience by founding a religious house, which gradually became a place of greater importance until the grasp of Henry VJJL1. crashed it. The Prior was a spiritual lord in Parliament. Portions of the ruins now exist. There is a town of Kells in the county of Meath. where a monastery was founded by the famous St. Columbkille ; also a third place of the same name in the county Antrim.
* The following is a paragraph from a letter by Mr. Croften Croker, on the subject of witchcraft in Ireland, published in the Dublin Journal : — " Ireland has been, in my opinion, unjustly stigmatized as a barbarous and superstitions country. It is certain that the cruel persecution carried on against poor and ignorant old women was as nothing in Ireland when compared with other countries. In addition to the three executions at Kilkenny, a town the inhabitants of which were almost entirely either English settlers or of English descent. I only remember to have met with an account of one other execution for the crime of witchcraft. The latter took place at Antrim in 1699. and it is. I believe, the last on record. The particulars of this silly tragedy were printed in a pamphlet entitled, ' The Bewitching of a Child in Ireland,' and from thence copied by Professor Sinclair, in his work entitled, ' Satan's Invisible World Discovered/ which is frequently referred to by Sir Walter Scott in his Letters on Demonologv."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 17

Founding of Waterford under Sitric (853)

Waterford · city · Waterford · 155–853

According to its historical record, Waterford was founded in 155 but became a considerable town under Sitric in 853, establishing it as an early settlement of significance on the Suir.

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Waterford City is seventy-seven miles from Limerick, fifty-five from the Limerick junction, and 181 or 113 from Dublin, according as the junction may be Kildare or Limerick. By the former route Tipperary, Cahir, Clonmel, and Carrick, are passed, by the latter Carlow and Kilkenny. The ancient name of Waterford was Cuanna-Frioth, or the Haven of the Sun. "It was afterwards called Gleann-na- Gleodh, or Valle)T of Lamentation, from the tremendous conflicts between the Irish and the Danes. By old Irish authors it is frequently named, from its shape, the Port of the Thigh. Its historical record states, that it was founded in 155, but made a considerable town under Sitric in 853."* On the lower end of the quay is a Danish tower, known as Eeginald's Tower, from the founder Eeginald, son of Imar ; it was built in 1003. In 1171, when Strongbow and Eaymond le Gros took Waterford, it was inhabited by Danes who, with the exception of the Prince of the Danes, and a few more, were put to death. It was here that Earl Strongbow was married to Eva, daughter of the king of Leinster, and here too that Henry II. first landed in Ireland. There is a good quay on the Suir at Waterford. The distance from Liverpool is 229 miles.
Steamers sail backwards and forwards once a-week. Tares 10s., steward's fee 2s. 6d. Between Waterford and Bristol steamers ply once a-week, Tares 14s. and 10s.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 18

Reginald's Tower, a Danish tower on Waterford quay (1003)

Reginald's Tower · man-made feature · Waterford · 1003

A Danish tower stands on the lower end of the quay at Waterford, known as Reginald's Tower after its founder Reginald, son of Imar. It was built in 1003 and remains a named antiquity of the city.

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Waterford City is seventy-seven miles from Limerick, fifty-five from the Limerick junction, and 181 or 113 from Dublin, according as the junction may be Kildare or Limerick. By the former route Tipperary, Cahir, Clonmel, and Carrick, are passed, by the latter Carlow and Kilkenny. The ancient name of Waterford was Cuanna-Frioth, or the Haven of the Sun. "It was afterwards called Gleann-na- Gleodh, or Valle)T of Lamentation, from the tremendous conflicts between the Irish and the Danes. By old Irish authors it is frequently named, from its shape, the Port of the Thigh. Its historical record states, that it was founded in 155, but made a considerable town under Sitric in 853."* On the lower end of the quay is a Danish tower, known as Eeginald's Tower, from the founder Eeginald, son of Imar ; it was built in 1003. In 1171, when Strongbow and Eaymond le Gros took Waterford, it was inhabited by Danes who, with the exception of the Prince of the Danes, and a few more, were put to death. It was here that Earl Strongbow was married to Eva, daughter of the king of Leinster, and here too that Henry II. first landed in Ireland. There is a good quay on the Suir at Waterford. The distance from Liverpool is 229 miles.
Steamers sail backwards and forwards once a-week. Tares 10s., steward's fee 2s. 6d. Between Waterford and Bristol steamers ply once a-week, Tares 14s. and 10s.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 18

St. Fionn Bar's cathedral and seminary in Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 600–610

In the early seventh century, the anchorite St. Fionn Bar founded a cathedral on the site of a Pagan temple in Cork. His seminary was reportedly attended by 700 scholars who flocked in from all parts.

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Cork is generally termed the capital of the south. It is a corporate city, returning two members to Parliament. It is governed by a mayor, sixteen aldermen, and forty-eight councillors, with a staff of paid officials. The town is situated on a fork of the river Lee. The river Lee is fed by a choir of lesser streams issuing from the mountainous west, and after refreshing the city, widens out into a lough or bay which is nearly filled up with the Great Island, on which is situated the town of Cove, now changed into Queenstown, The principal feeders of the Lee are the Dripsey, the Lane, and Foherish from the north, and the Sullane and Toon from the west. Cork had long been the home of a Pagan temple, on the site of which St. Fionn Bar, the anchorite from Gougane Barra, founded a cathedral in the beginning of the seventh century. The Danes, who in the ninth century overran the kingdom, are said to have been the founders of the city, and to have surrounded it with walls, although it is more probable that under St. Fionn Bar it had assumed a degree of importance, seeing that it is recorded, that his seminary was attended by 700 scholars, " who flocked in from all parts."*
Cork frequently devastated the whole country round, and was in turn punished by the neighbouring chiefs. The English settlers who had obtained a footing were held in great dislike by the natives, who for several centuries looked upon them as lawful spoil. The M'Carthys and O'Mahonys were ancient proprietors of the country. In 1493, Perkin "Warbeck, the impostor king, was received in Cork with regal honours, in reward for which, the deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its then ancient charter, which was restored to it in 1609. Ralph Holingshed the chronicler, whose works were published in 1577, thus describes the state of the city of Cork.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

The road takes you through Cork, the capital of the south, set on a fork of the river Lee. The Lee is fed by lesser streams from the mountainous west, the Dripsey, the Lane, and Foherish from the north, and the Sullane and Toon from the west. After passing through the city it widens into a lough or bay nearly filled by the Great Island, where the town of Cove, now Queenstown, stands. Cork had long been home to a Pagan temple. On that site, St. Fionn Bar, the anchorite from Gougane Barra, founded a cathedral in the beginning of the seventh century. It is recorded that his seminary was attended by 700 scholars who flocked in from all parts. Under St. Fionn Bar the place had already assumed a degree of importance. The Danes, who overran the kingdom in the ninth century, are said to have been the founders of the city and to have surrounded it with walls, though that earlier importance under St. Fionn Bar suggests the settlement was already significant before they came. The M'Carthys and O'Mahonys were ancient proprietors of the country round. In 1493, Perkin Warbeck, the impostor king, was received in Cork with regal honours. In reward for that, the deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its ancient charter, which was restored to it in 1609.

Strongbow and Raymond le Gros capture Waterford from the Danes (1171)

Waterford · city · Waterford · 1171

In 1171, Strongbow and Raymond le Gros captured Waterford, which was then inhabited by Danes. With the exception of the Prince of the Danes and a few others, the Danish inhabitants were put to death.

Read the passage

Waterford City is seventy-seven miles from Limerick, fifty-five from the Limerick junction, and 181 or 113 from Dublin, according as the junction may be Kildare or Limerick. By the former route Tipperary, Cahir, Clonmel, and Carrick, are passed, by the latter Carlow and Kilkenny. The ancient name of Waterford was Cuanna-Frioth, or the Haven of the Sun. "It was afterwards called Gleann-na- Gleodh, or Valle)T of Lamentation, from the tremendous conflicts between the Irish and the Danes. By old Irish authors it is frequently named, from its shape, the Port of the Thigh. Its historical record states, that it was founded in 155, but made a considerable town under Sitric in 853."* On the lower end of the quay is a Danish tower, known as Eeginald's Tower, from the founder Eeginald, son of Imar ; it was built in 1003. In 1171, when Strongbow and Eaymond le Gros took Waterford, it was inhabited by Danes who, with the exception of the Prince of the Danes, and a few more, were put to death. It was here that Earl Strongbow was married to Eva, daughter of the king of Leinster, and here too that Henry II. first landed in Ireland. There is a good quay on the Suir at Waterford. The distance from Liverpool is 229 miles.
Steamers sail backwards and forwards once a-week. Tares 10s., steward's fee 2s. 6d. Between Waterford and Bristol steamers ply once a-week, Tares 14s. and 10s.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 18

Strongbow's marriage to Eva and Henry II's first landing in Ireland at Waterford

Waterford · city · Waterford · 1171

At Waterford, Earl Strongbow was married to Eva, daughter of the king of Leinster, cementing the Norman alliance with the Irish crown. It was also here that Henry II first landed in Ireland, marking the beginning of English royal involvement on the island.

Read the passage

Waterford City is seventy-seven miles from Limerick, fifty-five from the Limerick junction, and 181 or 113 from Dublin, according as the junction may be Kildare or Limerick. By the former route Tipperary, Cahir, Clonmel, and Carrick, are passed, by the latter Carlow and Kilkenny. The ancient name of Waterford was Cuanna-Frioth, or the Haven of the Sun. "It was afterwards called Gleann-na- Gleodh, or Valle)T of Lamentation, from the tremendous conflicts between the Irish and the Danes. By old Irish authors it is frequently named, from its shape, the Port of the Thigh. Its historical record states, that it was founded in 155, but made a considerable town under Sitric in 853."* On the lower end of the quay is a Danish tower, known as Eeginald's Tower, from the founder Eeginald, son of Imar ; it was built in 1003. In 1171, when Strongbow and Eaymond le Gros took Waterford, it was inhabited by Danes who, with the exception of the Prince of the Danes, and a few more, were put to death. It was here that Earl Strongbow was married to Eva, daughter of the king of Leinster, and here too that Henry II. first landed in Ireland. There is a good quay on the Suir at Waterford. The distance from Liverpool is 229 miles.
Steamers sail backwards and forwards once a-week. Tares 10s., steward's fee 2s. 6d. Between Waterford and Bristol steamers ply once a-week, Tares 14s. and 10s.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 18

Cave of Dunloe: Ogham-inscribed 'library' discovered 1838

Dunloe · electoral division · Kerry · 1838

The Cave of Dunloe was discovered in 1838 by labourers digging a ditch who broke into a subterranean hollow. The cave's impost stones bear Ogham inscriptions, described as an ancient Irish library of the highest antiquity using the pre-Christian Druidic writing system of sixteen letters represented by strokes on stone edges.

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The Cave of Dunloe, situated in a field close by the high road, and at no great distance from the entrance to the Gap, will tempt the antiquarian tourist. The cave wTas discovered in 1838 by some labourers who were making a ditch, when they broke into a hollow under the earth.
" The Cave of Dunloe must be regarded as an ancient Irish library, lately disinterred, and restored to light. The books are the large impost stones ■vyhich form the roof. Their angles contain the writing. A library of such literature was never heard of in England before, and scarcely in Ireland;

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 30

Clonmel tradition of bees and the Plain of Honey

Clonmel · town · Tipperary

A tradition holds that early giants released a swarm of bees to select a camp site; the bees settled near the present town of Clonmel, where a circular fort was built. The spot took the name Cluain-mealla, meaning 'Plain of Honey.'

Read the passage

Clonmel is a station on the Waterford and Limerick Eailway, 27J miles from the junction and 134J from Dublin. This is now the chief town of the county. It is famous as being the birth-place of Sterne. " Clonmel consists of four streets ; it has a bridge of twenty arches over the Suir." The markethouse is good. Several charities exist in the town. The name is accounted for by a tradition which states that a few of the gigantic inhabitants of early Ireland wanted a place to build a camp upon, and let off a swarm of bees, in order to settle on the spot selected by them. The bees, it is said, came down on a spot near the site of the present town, and on it was erected an ancient circular fort, seen at the present day. The spot then assumed the name of Cluainmealla, the " Plain of Honey." On this circular mound a castle was built at a later period. It was here that Cromwell was so near giving up the siege which had already cost him 2000 men. " He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which now only the ruins remain." The Gothic church has not shared the same fate as that on the Bock of Cashel. It is still used as a place of worship, and is consequently kept in good repair. The steeple is octagonal and embattled. Xear the top of it are Gothic openings in each of the eight sides.
34 DUBLIN TO CORK.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

As you come through Clonmel, the chief town of Tipperary, the road crosses the Suir by a bridge of twenty arches. The town consists of four streets, and the market house is good, and several charities exist in the town. A tradition accounts for the name. In early Ireland, a few of the gigantic inhabitants wanted a place to build a camp. They let off a swarm of bees, and the bees came down near the site of the present town. On that spot an ancient circular fort was erected, still seen today. The place took the name Cluain-mealla, the Plain of Honey. On the circular mound a castle was built later. It was here that Cromwell nearly gave up the siege, which had already cost him 2000 men. He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which now only the ruins remain. The Gothic church still stands, kept in good repair as a place of worship. Its steeple is octagonal and embattled, with Gothic openings near the top on each of its eight sides. It is also the birthplace of Sterne.

Doneraile: castle, barrack, and marble quarries

Doneraile · townland · Cork

Doneraile is a market and post town on the river Awbeg, seat of the St. Leger family at Doneraile Park. A barrack for a troop of horse stands on the remains of the old castle, and nearby quarries yield beautiful variegated marble.

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Doneeaile, $y 5 m. distant. A market and post town, giving the title of Viscount to the family ::' S: Leger. It is' situated on" the river Awbeg. over which it has a Igood bridge. Hm cr i of the St. Legers, Doneraile Park, is a ! fine property, with a beautnul modern nian- 1 sion. " There is a neat church here, with a good steeple and spire : ' and on the remains of the castle a barrack is erected for a troop of horse. Near this town are several quarries of beautiful variegated marble."
The Abbey cr Bur-

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 5

Ireton's siege of Carlow Castle

Carlow · townland · Carlow

During the wars of the Protectorate, Carlow Castle was besieged and bombarded by parliamentary forces and finally surrendered on honourable terms. Ireton wrote to the governor offering fair terms, warning that they were now ready to deal in earnest.

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Carlow, the county town, is on the river Barrow. It returns one member to Parliament, though in good old times before the Union it sent, or the Burtons — patrons — sent two. At that time the county sent in all six members, now reduced to three. The town is well built, and has a truly modern aspect ; and in the twelfth century it was a place of importance. Hugh de Lacy, lord-deputy of Ireland, erected the castle in 1179 to protect the settlers from the Irish. The exchequer of the kingdom was established here in 1361 by the Duke of Clarence, who, moreover, had the town fortified. In 1494 the castle was taken from Sir Edward Poynings by James, brother of the Earl of Kildare ; another of the same family, Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, kept it during his rebellion in 1534. In the wars of the Protectorate it played an important part, being besieged and bombarded by the parliamentary forces ; and was finally surrendered on honourable terms.
Ireton wrote a dispatch to the governor, requesting him to surrender, adding, " We have been your gentle neighbours hitherto, doing little more than looking upon you. But the time being come now that we are like to deal in earnest with your garrison as effectually and speedily as God shall enable us, that I may not be wanting on my part to save any of the blood which may be spilled therein, I am willing on a timely surrender, to give terms to so fair an enemy."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

Mallow's Desmond castles ruined in 1641

Mallow · town · Cork · 1641

On the site of Mallow stood Short Castle and, to the south, another castle built by the Desmonds described as a noble pile of buildings. The latter was ruined by the rebellion in 1641.

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settled the crown of, Portugal on the house of Braganza. and was Lord "President of Munster.;: On the site of the town stood Short Castle, and on the south another. ■ built by the Desmonds. . which was a noble pile j of buildings. It was ruined bv the rebellion in 1641. *
■$&& cr. river Blackwater. The railway bridge over the Blackwater is supported by ten arches.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0

Mitchelstown Caves discovery in 1833

Mitchelstown Caves · cave s souterrain s · Tipperary · 1833

A new cave at Mitchelstown was discovered in 1833 by a quarryman who lost his crowbar and stumbled upon the cavern entrance while searching for it. The caves feature striking stalactites and various calcareous formations named for their shapes.

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MitcheUstown Caves are at the extreme south-west of the county, about six miles from the town of the same name (which is in County Cork), and ten miles from the Cahir station, in a south-western direction. There is an old cave which is seldom visited, and a new cave which was only discovered in 1833. by a quarryman who lost his crowbar, and going in search of it came upon the entrance of the cavern. The entrance to this cave is along a narrow passage for a distance of nearly 300 feet. Several caves are met with in the expedition, which should never be undertaken without the assistance of one or two guides. AVhat is termed the lower-middle cave is thus described : —
" In shape its ground-plan resembles a mattress, or "bottle with cylindrical neck and lobular bottom, the diameter of the latter being iiinety-five, and the length and diameter of the former seventy-two and forty -two feet respectively. The vertical section of its wider end is that of a dome or hemisphere, tlie apex of which has an elevation from its base of thirty-five feet. Stalactites of small size depend from the roof, and a sheeting of sparry matter is observable all along the joints of the limestone, and covers beneath many parts of the floor, where it is usually superimposed upon very fine red clay,* which would appear to have been washed down by water filtering from above before the interstices of the arch were sufficiently closed by calcareous incrustations. The floor of this cave is strewed with large tetrahedral blocks of limestone."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

Somewhere about Mitchelstown Caves, a new cave was found in 1833 by a quarryman who lost his crowbar. He went searching for it and came upon the entrance of the cavern. There had been an old cave here too, but it was seldom visited. The new one became the one people came to see. The entrance takes you along a narrow passage for nearly 300 feet before you reach the caves beyond. You should never go in without one or two guides. One of the caves, called the lower-middle cave, has a ground-plan shaped like a bottle, with a cylindrical neck and a lobular bottom. The bottom is ninety-five feet across, and the neck is seventy-two feet long and forty-two feet wide. The wider end rises like a dome, thirty-five feet from base to apex. Stalactites hang from the roof. A sheeting of sparry matter runs along the joints of the limestone and covers parts of the floor. Beneath that, there is fine red clay, which seems to have been washed down by water filtering from above before the calcareous incrustations closed the gaps in the arch. The floor is strewed with large tetrahedral blocks of limestone.

Sir Walter Scott's 1821 visit to Blarney Castle

near Blarney · townland · Cork · 1821

In 1821, Sir Walter Scott visited Blarney Castle accompanied by Mr. Lockhart and Miss Edgeworth. The castle grounds, once celebrated in song, had been declining in beauty after an auction felled old trees and removed statues.

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are choked up with rubbish. In 1821, Sir Walter Scott, Mr. Lockhart, and Miss Edge worth, visited the castle.
Blarney LaJce is a sweet piece of water, about a quarter of a mile from the castle. A tradition states, that at certain seasons a herd of white cows rises from the bosom of the lake to graze among the rich pasture which clothes its banks, Another story is, that the Earl of Clancarty, who forfeited the castle at the Eevolution, cast all his plate into a certain part ; that " three of the McCarthy's inherit the secret of the place where they are deposited, any one of whom dying com- * Father Prout. t MilliMn's Groves of Blarney.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 27

Blarney Stone tradition of eloquence

near Blarney · townland · Cork · 1446

A curious tradition holds that kissing the Blarney Stone endows the kisser with persuasive, wheedling eloquence known as 'Blarney,' characteristic of Cork people. The stone bears the inscription 'Me fieri fecit, AD 1446.'

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In order to sip inspiration from this stone, it is required that the tourist be suspended by the heels in mid-air. "A curious tradition attributes to it the power of endowing whoever kisses it with the sweet, persuasive, wheedling eloquence so perceptible in the language of the Cork people, and which is generally termed 'Blarney.'' This is the true meaning of the word, and not as some writers have supposed, a faculty of deviating from veracity with an unblushing countenance whenever it may be convenient."*
* J. S. Coyne,

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 27

Carlow Castle built by Hugh de Lacy in 1179

Carlow · townland · Carlow · 1179–1494

Hugh de Lacy, lord-deputy of Ireland, erected Carlow Castle in 1179 to protect settlers from the Irish. The exchequer was established there in 1361 by the Duke of Clarence, who fortified the town. The castle changed hands multiple times through the centuries.

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Carlow, the county town, is on the river Barrow. It returns one member to Parliament, though in good old times before the Union it sent, or the Burtons — patrons — sent two. At that time the county sent in all six members, now reduced to three. The town is well built, and has a truly modern aspect ; and in the twelfth century it was a place of importance. Hugh de Lacy, lord-deputy of Ireland, erected the castle in 1179 to protect the settlers from the Irish. The exchequer of the kingdom was established here in 1361 by the Duke of Clarence, who, moreover, had the town fortified. In 1494 the castle was taken from Sir Edward Poynings by James, brother of the Earl of Kildare ; another of the same family, Lord Thomas Fitzgerald, kept it during his rebellion in 1534. In the wars of the Protectorate it played an important part, being besieged and bombarded by the parliamentary forces ; and was finally surrendered on honourable terms.
Ireton wrote a dispatch to the governor, requesting him to surrender, adding, " We have been your gentle neighbours hitherto, doing little more than looking upon you. But the time being come now that we are like to deal in earnest with your garrison as effectually and speedily as God shall enable us, that I may not be wanting on my part to save any of the blood which may be spilled therein, I am willing on a timely surrender, to give terms to so fair an enemy."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

Church of the Holy Trinity, founded by Father Mathew

Cork · city · Cork

This Gothic church in Cork was founded by Theobald Mathew, known as the apostle of temperance. Its stained glass window was purchased with funds raised in Cork for the O'Connell monument. Father Mathew began his temperance preaching career in Cork, supported financially by his distiller brother.

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The Church of the Holy Trinity is a Gothic building, chiefly interesting from it having been founded by Theobald Mathew, the apostle of temperance. The stained glass window which it contains was purchased with the fund raised in Cork for the O'Connell monument. Father Mathew received the rudiments of his education at Kilkenny, thence he proceeded

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 21

As the companion tells it

Up ahead in Cork is the Church of the Holy Trinity, a Gothic building founded by Theobald Mathew, the apostle of temperance. Mathew began his temperance preaching career here in Cork, supported financially by his distiller brother. The church's stained glass window was bought with funds raised in Cork for the O'Connell monument.

Clonmel's Gothic church and ancient fort

Clonmel · town · Tipperary

Clonmel's Gothic church, still in use, features an octagonal embattled steeple with Gothic openings and admired east window tracery. A circular fort mound, linked to a tradition of bees settling there, gave the town its name Cluain-mealla, 'Plain of Honey,' and later hosted a castle where Cromwell nearly abandoned his siege.

Read the passage

Clonmel is a station on the Waterford and Limerick Eailway, 27J miles from the junction and 134J from Dublin. This is now the chief town of the county. It is famous as being the birth-place of Sterne. " Clonmel consists of four streets ; it has a bridge of twenty arches over the Suir." The markethouse is good. Several charities exist in the town. The name is accounted for by a tradition which states that a few of the gigantic inhabitants of early Ireland wanted a place to build a camp upon, and let off a swarm of bees, in order to settle on the spot selected by them. The bees, it is said, came down on a spot near the site of the present town, and on it was erected an ancient circular fort, seen at the present day. The spot then assumed the name of Cluainmealla, the " Plain of Honey." On this circular mound a castle was built at a later period. It was here that Cromwell was so near giving up the siege which had already cost him 2000 men. " He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which now only the ruins remain." The Gothic church has not shared the same fate as that on the Bock of Cashel. It is still used as a place of worship, and is consequently kept in good repair. The steeple is octagonal and embattled. Xear the top of it are Gothic openings in each of the eight sides.
34 DUBLIN TO CORK.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Clonmel, the chief town of County Tipperary, you are on the old ground of a siege and a legend. Clonmel is famous as the birthplace of Sterne. It consists of four streets and has a bridge of twenty arches over the Suir. The market house is good, and several charities exist in the town. The name Cluain-mealla means Plain of Honey, and the story goes that the gigantic inhabitants of early Ireland wanted a place to build a camp. They let off a swarm of bees, and the bees came down near the site of the present town. On that spot an ancient circular fort was raised, still seen today. On that same mound a castle was built later, and there Cromwell nearly gave up his siege, which had already cost him 2000 men. He demolished the castles and fortifications, of which only the ruins remain. The Gothic church survived better than the one on the Rock of Cashel. It is still used as a place of worship and kept in good repair. The steeple is octagonal and embattled, with Gothic openings on each of its eight sides.

Danes as founders of walled city of Cork

Cork · city · Cork · 800–900

The Danes, who overran the kingdom in the ninth century, are said to have founded the city of Cork and surrounded it with walls, though it may already have had importance under St. Fionn Bar.

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Cork is generally termed the capital of the south. It is a corporate city, returning two members to Parliament. It is governed by a mayor, sixteen aldermen, and forty-eight councillors, with a staff of paid officials. The town is situated on a fork of the river Lee. The river Lee is fed by a choir of lesser streams issuing from the mountainous west, and after refreshing the city, widens out into a lough or bay which is nearly filled up with the Great Island, on which is situated the town of Cove, now changed into Queenstown, The principal feeders of the Lee are the Dripsey, the Lane, and Foherish from the north, and the Sullane and Toon from the west. Cork had long been the home of a Pagan temple, on the site of which St. Fionn Bar, the anchorite from Gougane Barra, founded a cathedral in the beginning of the seventh century. The Danes, who in the ninth century overran the kingdom, are said to have been the founders of the city, and to have surrounded it with walls, although it is more probable that under St. Fionn Bar it had assumed a degree of importance, seeing that it is recorded, that his seminary was attended by 700 scholars, " who flocked in from all parts."*
Cork frequently devastated the whole country round, and was in turn punished by the neighbouring chiefs. The English settlers who had obtained a footing were held in great dislike by the natives, who for several centuries looked upon them as lawful spoil. The M'Carthys and O'Mahonys were ancient proprietors of the country. In 1493, Perkin "Warbeck, the impostor king, was received in Cork with regal honours, in reward for which, the deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its then ancient charter, which was restored to it in 1609. Ralph Holingshed the chronicler, whose works were published in 1577, thus describes the state of the city of Cork.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 19

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, the capital of the south, you are on a fork of the river Lee. The Lee is fed by lesser streams from the mountainous west, the Dripsey, the Lane, and the Foherish from the north, the Sullane and the Toon from the west. After it passes the city it widens into a lough nearly filled by the Great Island, where the town of Cove, now Queenstown, stands. Cork had long been the home of a Pagan temple. On that site, St. Fionn Bar, an anchorite from Gougane Barra, founded a cathedral in the beginning of the seventh century. The Danes, who overran the kingdom in the ninth century, are said to have founded the city and surrounded it with walls. But it is more probable that under St. Fionn Bar it had already assumed a degree of importance, since it is recorded that his seminary was attended by 700 scholars, who flocked in from all parts. The M'Carthys and O'Mahonys were ancient proprietors of the country. Cork frequently devastated the whole country round and was in turn punished by the neighbouring chiefs. In 1493, Perkin Warbeck, the impostor king, was received in Cork with regal honours. In reward for this, the deluded mayor was hanged and beheaded, and the city lost its ancient charter, which was restored in 1609.

Kildare: Franciscan Abbey founded by de Vesey

Kildare · town · Kildare · 1260–1290

The Franciscan Abbey in Kildare was originally founded by Lord William de Vesey in 1260, with completion left to Gerald Fitz-Maurice O'Faley. De Vesey also founded an abbey for white friars in 1290.

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retired from the throne of Leinster, and took up his abode in the Augustinian Monastery : he afterwards became abbot and Bishop of Kildare. one of the few instances on record of a crown and sceptre being resigned for a mitre and crosier. " In 756, Eiglitigin, the abbot, who was also Bishop of Kildare. was killed by a priest as he was celebrating mass at the altar of St. Bridgid. since which time no priest whatsoever was allowed to celebrate mass in that church in the presence of a bishop.r: The Franciscan Abbey, for "friars of orders grey." is situated on the south side of the town. The original founder (1260) was Lord William de Vesey; the completion of it was left to Gerald Fitz-Maurice O'Faley. De Vesey also founded, in 1290, an abbey for white friars. The town still contains a friary and nunnery, a Roman Catholic chapel, and various schools.
Athy, situated midway between Kildare and Carlow. is more conveniently visited from the Kildare junction. This town is. alternately with Xaas. the seat of the assize for the county. Athy is chiefly interesting from its proximity to two historical spots. The first, the ancient Camien, now termed MuUimast, or Mnllach Mastean. "the moat of decapitation.'-' In the reign of Elizabeth it was proposed to the neighbouring Irish chiefs to meet at this spot to have their mutual animosities and grievances explained and rectified. The chiefs came cheerfully to Carmen, where they were massacred. ''The moat of Ascul " has a more honourable memory. Here, in 1315. the Scots, under Edward Bruce, fought a sanguinary battle in behalf of Irish freedom. The English were commanded by Sir Hamon le Gros.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 12

As the companion tells it

Coming through Kildare town, there's a Franciscan abbey built for what were called friars of orders grey. The original founder was Lord William de Vesey, in 1260. The completion of it was left to Gerald Fitz-Maurice O'Faley. De Vesey also founded an abbey for white friars in 1290. The town still contains a friary and nunnery, a Roman Catholic chapel, and various schools. Kildare has older religious roots as well. A ruler of Leinster retired from the throne and took up his abode in the Augustinian Monastery here. He afterwards became abbot and Bishop of Kildare. The record calls it "one of the few instances on record of a crown and sceptre being resigned for a mitre and crosier." In 756, Eiglitigin, the abbot who was also Bishop of Kildare, was killed by a priest as he was celebrating mass at the altar of St. Brigid. Since that time, no priest whatsoever was allowed to celebrate mass in that church in the presence of a bishop.

Kilkenny Castle built on site of earlier fortification

Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1173–1195

Kilkenny Castle was built in 1195 on the site of an older castle destroyed by the Irish twenty-two years before. Its position was militarily advantageous, with a precipitous side above the river and solid masonry ramparts 40 feet high.

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Kilkenny Castle was built in 1195, on the site of an older one destroyed by the Irish twenty-two years before.
" The situation," writes Seward, "in a military view, was most eligible ; the ground was originally a conoid, the elliptical side abrupt and precipitous, with the river running rapidly at its base : there the natural rampart was faced with a wall of solid masonry, 40 feet high : the other parts were defended by bastions, courtins, towers, and outworks, and on the summit the castle was erected."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 16

Leaning Tower of Kilmacduagh

Kilmacduagh · townland · Galway

The round tower of Kilmacduagh is one of the largest in the kingdom. Despite being forced to lean terrifyingly to one side from an accident, it remains structurally firm and intact due to its precise construction.

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vary somewhat from the perpendicular line, but the keenest eye cannot trace a deviation in a angle instance, from amongst the whole of tie Sabaean monuments. Even the tWer of Kilmacdui.. Tihray) one of the
largest in the kingdom, having from soine~ accident* been forced to lean terrifically to one s. r_rm as before. Such was

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 11

Macroom: Druid meetings and King John's castle

Macroom · town · Cork

Macroom is a market-town whose ancient name Maigh cruim means the plain of Crom, a heathen deity. The Bards, the second order of Druids, held meetings there even after the introduction of Christianity, and a castle ascribed to King John stands as an old baronial structure.

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Macroom is a market-town of some size. Its ancient name was Maigh cruim, signifying the plain of Crom, who was a heathen deity. The Bards, the second order of Druids, held their meetings here, even after the introduction of Christianity. The castle, ascribed to King John, is an old baronial structure.
GOUGANE BARRA, the wild home of the saintly founder of Cork, is a solitary mountain lake, formed by the expansion of the river Lea near its source. The lake is properly called Lough Allua; it covers an area of 250 acres, and is picturesquely dotted with little rocky islets. On three sides of the lake rise high and precipitous rocks. The island on which lived the pious St. Fionn Bar, is connected with the shore by a rude artificial causeway, and hence the name Gougane Barra, which literally signifies the " Causeway of Barra." The well is supposed to possess peculiar virtues, and a pilgrimage is made to it twice every year. The scenes enacted at these patrons are often of too gross a nature to be tolerated, and consequently the Roman Catholic clergy have discountenanced them. From Gougane Barra the tourist may proceed either to Bantry or GlengarifT by the

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 40

Mallow and the Desmond barony

Mallow · town · Cork

Mallow is a small town on the river Blackwater whose barony was formerly held by the Earls of Desmond and returned two members to the Irish Parliament. After the attainder of the Earl of Desmond, Queen Elizabeth granted it to Sir John Norris, who settled the crown of Portugal on the house of Braganza and was Lord President of Munster.

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Mallow is a small town situated on the river Blackwater. The Earls of Desmond formerly held the barony, which returned two members to the Irish Parliament. On the attainder of the Earl of Desmond, it was "granted by Queen Elizabeth to Sir John Xorris, who
gjg ON LEFT TEOil

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 6

Royal Hospital of Kilmainham and Brian Boroimhe

Kilmainham · townland · Dublin

The Royal Hospital of Kilmainham is built on the site of the Priory of the Knights Hospitallers. The village is renowned as the place where Brian Boroimhe spent the last year of his life.

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Royal Hospital of Kilmainham, on the site of Priory of the Knights Hospitallers. The renowned Brian Boroimhe spent th last year of his life :' i
the village.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 1

Shandon Church built from abbey and castle ruins

near Shandon · locality · Cork · 1722

Shandon Church, begun in 1722, has a steeple constructed of hewn stone taken from the Franciscan Abbey where James II. heard mass and from the ruins of Lord Barry's castle, the official residence of the lords-president of Munster. The name Shandon (Seandun) signifies in Irish the old fort or castle.

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Shandon Church is a plain, rather grotesque - looking edifice, with a steeple which seems as if huilt in storeys. The church was begun in 1722, " and its steeple was constructed of hewn stone from the Franciscan Abbey, where James II. heard mass, and from the ruins of Lord Barry's castle which had been the official residence of the lords-president of Munster, and from whence this quarter of the city takes its name. Shandon (Seandun) signifying in Irish the old fort or castle."* Three sides of the steeple are built of limestone, and the fourth of a red stone. Its height is 120 feet. Shandon, however, is celebrated on account of the lyrics which it has given rise to. We quote two stanzas from that by the Eev. Francis Mahony.
" With deep affection " I've heard bells chiming

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 20

As the companion tells it

You're coming through Shandon now, on the north side of Cork. The church here was begun in 1722, a plain, rather grotesque-looking building with a steeple that seems as if built in storeys. That steeple was constructed of hewn stone taken from two older places. One was the Franciscan Abbey, where James II heard mass. The other was the ruin of Lord Barry's castle, which had been the official residence of the lords-president of Munster. The quarter takes its name from that castle. Shandon, or Seandun in Irish, signifies the old fort or castle. Three sides of the steeple are built of limestone, and the fourth of a red stone. Its height is 120 feet. Shandon is celebrated, though, on account of the lyrics it has given rise to. The reverend Francis Mahony wrote of its bells chiming with deep affection.

Aghadoe Round Tower: well-dressed masonry damaged by tomb-builders and gold-seekers

Aghadoe · parish · Kerry

The round tower at Aghadoe stands about 15 feet high with masonry superior to the church, using large, regular, well-dressed stones. Much of the north-side facing stone was removed for tomb construction in the adjacent burying-ground, and treasure-seekers have further damaged the structure.

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The Bound Toioer is in no better condition than the castle, Its present height is about 15 feet. "Its masonry is greatly superior to that of the church. The stones are large, regular, and well dressed. The greater part of the facing stone of the north side has been unfortunately taken away for the erection of tombs in the adjacent burying-ground. Within and without, the spoliator has been effectually at work, aided by those worst pests, the gold-seekers — fellows, whose unhallowed dreams are most fatal to our antiquities." Continuing the drive for another mile, we take a sharp turn to the left, passing to the right
AGHADOE HOUSE, the pleasant mansion of Lady Headly. After a quarter of a mile's drive in a south-eastern direction, we take another sharp turn to the right, and for two miles and a half continue due west. To our left, on the lake side, is Lake View House, the residence of James 0' Conn ell, Esq., brother to the late agitator. On the same side appears Killalee House, and on the right the ruins of the church of the same name. Scarcely six and a half miles from Killarney we pass to our left the beautiful demesne of Beaufort House, having first crossed the River Laune, which conveys the surplus water from the Upper Lake.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 30

New Cemetery, Cork (former Botanic Garden)

Cork · city · Cork · 1826

About a mile from Cork town, this cemetery was formerly the Botanic Garden, converted by Father Mathew in 1826. Among its sepulchral monuments is a sarcophagus of Portland stone surmounted by a white Italian marble angel by Hogan, a native of Cork.

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The New Cemetery is about a mile distant from town. It was formerly the Botanic Garden, and was converted into a cemetery by Father Mathew in 1826. The ground is well laid out, and neatly planted. Among the finer specimens of sepulchral architecture which it contains, is a sarcophagus of Portland stone, surmounted by a figure in wThite Italian marble of an angel by Hogan, a native of Cork.
To the south-west of the town is a piece of water, only interesting as the scene of one of Croft on Croker's fairy legends. "He says that it was once a small fairy well, covered by a stone, concerning which a tradition had been handed down from remote times, which predicted, that if the stone which covered the well were not replaced every morning after the dwellers in the valley had taken from it their daily supply of water, a torrent would rush forth and inundate the valley, and drown all the inhabitants. This calamity was at length incurred by a certain princess, who, neglecting the injunction, forgot to close the mouth of the well, and caused the destruction of her father and his people."

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 22

As the companion tells it

As you pass through Cork, about a mile from the town lies the New Cemetery. It was formerly the Botanic Garden, converted into a burial ground by Father Mathew in 1826. The ground is well laid out and neatly planted. Among the finer specimens of sepulchral architecture it contains is a sarcophagus of Portland stone, surmounted by a figure in white Italian marble of an angel by Hogan, a native of Cork. To the south-west of the town is a piece of water, interesting only as the scene of one of Crofton Croker's fairy legends. He says it was once a small fairy well, covered by a stone, and a tradition handed down from remote times predicted that if the stone covering the well were not replaced every morning after the dwellers in the valley had taken their daily supply of water, a torrent would rush forth and inundate the valley and drown all the inhabitants. This calamity was at length incurred by a certain princess who, neglecting the injunction, forgot to close the mouth of the well and caused the destruction of her father and his people.

Templemore Priory and Knights Templar Castle

Templemore · town · Tipperary

The Priory at Templemore, the seat of Sir John Carden, features ruins with a western window showing fine Gothic architecture. One entrance incorporates the remains of an old castle probably occupied by the Knights Templars.

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The Peioey, seat of' Sir John Carden, Bart. The demesne was that originally belonging to Priory, the" ruins of which are still extant. The western window is a very per- j feet specimen of Gothic architecture. One of the entrances to the Priory is the remains of an" old castle, pro-| bably occupied by ; the Knights Templars, I after whom the ad-j joining town of Tern-'
92|

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 4

Archbishop Price unroofs Cashel Cathedral

Cashel · town · Tipperary · 1752

In 1752 Archbishop Price removed the roof from the choir of Cashel Cathedral, converting the entire building into a ruin and ending divine service there.

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effacing finger" has swept the lines. The gilding as well has faded from their capitals. As it is, however, few could credit the beauty and magnificence evidenced by these walls. The existence of a stone roof has tended wonderfully to preserve from decay the carvings on the arches and capitals. The cathedral is of a later date, being built in the pointed style. In the year 1495 the turbulent Earl of Kildare, desiring to destroy Archbishop Creagh, set fire to the cathedral. It is recorded that — " He readily confessed his guilt, and added 'that he never would have done it, but that he thought the Archbishop was within at the time.' The candour and simplicity of his confession convinced king Henry that he could not be capable of the intrigues and duplicity with which he was charged ; and when the Bishop of Meath concluded the last article of the impeachment with the remarkable words, ' you see all Ireland cannot rule this gentleman,' the king instantly replied, ' Then he shall rule all Ireland,' and forthwith appointed him to the lord-lieutenancy of that kingdom." The cathedral is a conspicuous object for a considerable distance round. Divine service continued to be performed within until the time of Archbishop Price, who in 1752 removed the roof from the choir7 and converted the whole into a ruin. " The extent of the nave and choir from west to east is about two hundred feet, and the steeple is in the centre of the cross." The round tower, like most others, has no written history. " The city," says Seward. " was originally surrounded by a wall, which though now mouldering, seems to have been of better materials than the generality of such enclosures ; two gates are still remaining of tolerable workmanship." In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the rock, and put to death all the clergy he could find.

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 15

As the companion tells it

Coming through Cashel now, in Tipperary. The cathedral was built in the pointed style and stood as a conspicuous object for a considerable distance round. Its story is one of repeated destruction. In 1495 the Earl of Kildare, wanting to destroy Archbishop Creagh, set fire to the cathedral. He readily confessed his guilt and added, in words from the source, "that he never would have done it, but that he thought the Archbishop was within at the time." His candour and simplicity convinced King Henry that he could not be capable of the intrigues and duplicity with which he was charged. When the Bishop of Meath concluded the last article of the impeachment with the words, "you see all Ireland cannot rule this gentleman," the king instantly replied, "Then he shall rule all Ireland," and forthwith appointed him lord-lieutenant of that kingdom. Divine service continued to be performed within the cathedral until the time of Archbishop Price, who in 1752 removed the roof from the choir and converted the whole into a ruin. The extent of the nave and choir from west to east is about two hundred feet, and the steeple is in the centre of the cross. The round tower, like most others, has no written history. The city was originally surrounded by a wall, which though now mouldering, seems to have been of better materials than the generality of such enclosures. Two gates are still remaining of tolerable workmanship. In 1647 Lord Inchiquin stormed the rock and put to death all the clergy he could find.

Celbridge Abbey and Vanessa's residence

Celbridge · town · Kildare

Celbridge is named from St. Bridgid's Chapel. Vanessa, one of Swift's loves, resided at Celbridge Abbey, the home of H. Grattan, Esq.

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«€} Celbbidge 1 m. I54g distant. So named from! St. Bridgid's Chapel. Vanessa, one of Swift's loves, resided for some time at Celbridge Abbey, the residence of H. Grattan, Esq.
ON RIGHT TEOil

Internet Archive blacksguidetokil00adam_0, Chapter 1

Black's guide to Killarney and the south of Ireland

The stories, best first

Kilcolman Castle: Spenser, Raleigh, and the Faery Queen

Carlow Castle blown up in 1814 for lunatic asylum

Earl of Kildare burns Cashel Cathedral

Hore Abbey founded by Archbishop MacCarvill

Tomb of Earl of Ormond and his warlike Countess

Castletownroche Castle and the 1649 siege

Kildare: St. Brigid's nunnery and inextinguishable fire

Witchcraft execution at Antrim in 1699

Cromwell besieges and takes Kilkenny Castle

Fairy well legend south-west of Cork

Perkin Warbeck received in Cork with regal honours

Franciscan abbey at Youghal founded 1224

Gougane Barra: St. Fionn Bar's island hermitage

Monasterevan Abbey and St. Even's sanctuary

Monkstown Castle built for a groat

Inchiquin storms the Rock of Cashel

William Penn's conversion to Quakerism in Cork

Bishop Berkeley and the see of Cloyne

Coronation Stone of Irish kings at Cashel

Cromwell's siege of Clonmel cost 2000 men

Drake's Pool and the Spanish pursuit

Kate Kearney's Cottage at the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe

Ancient names of Waterford: Haven of the Sun and Valley of Lamentation

Bianconi established car travel system from Clonmel

Rock of Cashel and the descent of the Macarthys

Blarney Lake legend of white cows and hidden plate

Bridgetown Abbey founded 1314

Cahir Castle taken by Essex and Cromwell

Cloyne round tower struck by lightning

Kells monastery founded by St. Columba

Kells Priory, founded by Geoffrey Fitz-Robert

Founding of Waterford under Sitric (853)

Reginald's Tower, a Danish tower on Waterford quay (1003)

St. Fionn Bar's cathedral and seminary in Cork

Strongbow and Raymond le Gros capture Waterford from the Danes (1171)

Strongbow's marriage to Eva and Henry II's first landing in Ireland at Waterford

Cave of Dunloe: Ogham-inscribed 'library' discovered 1838

Clonmel tradition of bees and the Plain of Honey

Doneraile: castle, barrack, and marble quarries

Ireton's siege of Carlow Castle

Mallow's Desmond castles ruined in 1641

Mitchelstown Caves discovery in 1833

Sir Walter Scott's 1821 visit to Blarney Castle

Blarney Stone tradition of eloquence

Carlow Castle built by Hugh de Lacy in 1179

Church of the Holy Trinity, founded by Father Mathew

Clonmel's Gothic church and ancient fort

Danes as founders of walled city of Cork

Kildare: Franciscan Abbey founded by de Vesey

Kilkenny Castle built on site of earlier fortification

Leaning Tower of Kilmacduagh

Macroom: Druid meetings and King John's castle

Mallow and the Desmond barony

Royal Hospital of Kilmainham and Brian Boroimhe

Shandon Church built from abbey and castle ruins

Aghadoe Round Tower: well-dressed masonry damaged by tomb-builders and gold-seekers

New Cemetery, Cork (former Botanic Garden)

Templemore Priory and Knights Templar Castle

Archbishop Price unroofs Cashel Cathedral

Celbridge Abbey and Vanessa's residence