This was another part of our visit to Ireland back in July. Blarney Castle, near Cork, can trace its history back to around 1200 although the current keep dates to the mid 15th century. It has been the centre of conflict, changed hands several times, been damaged, restored and then partially neglected. It is perhaps though best known as home to the Blarney stone, a stone with supposed mythical powers of eloquence bestowed upon those who kiss it. There are many stories of the stones' origin which are largely fantasy tales but it serves as a good tourist attraction and generates a good queue of people willing to lie on their back and lean backwards over the battlement to give it a kiss. Kind of weird really but having gone all the way there I did it as well! For the ladies though its not advisable to go in a skirt, it can be a bit undignified!
The castle also has some extensive gardens and woodland walks and is home to the more recent Blarney House which is also open to the public but here are some images of the castle itself.
Your photos bring back memories. Went there almost 20 years ago. I wasn't courageous enough to kiss the Blarney but my husband did. Nice set. Thanks for sharing and bringing back memories.
ReplyDeleteWell done Peter!
ReplyDelete🙂
DeleteA pleasure Camellia. My wife was the same as you, she looked on whilst I contorted myself.
ReplyDelete👍🏼😉
DeleteNice!! 2 questions ... So in the photos above, which one was the Blarney stone? 2nd question, how did you manage to line up the photos so neatly in blogger?
ReplyDeleteSo in the middle picture with the blue sleeve in the right corner, if you look back there is a lady in an orange shirt on the ground. The stone is in the wall behind her and slightly below floor level so to kiss it you have to lay on your back and lean backwards! There would have been a picture of me 'in position' but that was in the hands of my wife who had a 'stupid camera' moment and didn't get anything. You can buy official pictures as well but I didn't bother.
DeleteThe picture layout needs a bit of code for a table inserted. I'll see if I can message you later.
Oh wow ... I see it!
DeleteThese are great, Peter! I love seeing these shots of the old castles, monasteries, etc. that you visit.
ReplyDeleteThanks Tom, we are lucky having these old structures to visit
DeleteCastles love them love all the angles and captures
ReplyDeleteThank you Tom 🙂
Delete