Irish Castles and Leprechauns

Bev Cohen, Yahoo! Contributor Network
Feb 28, 2011 "Share your voice on Yahoo! websites. Start Here."

Ireland is a land of green rolling hills polka dotted with cows and sheep; a land of leprechauns and majestic castles scattered throughout the countryside. Many of the castles in Ireland were built as fortresses, not just fancy homes for the rich. Below we'll take a look at some of Irish castles.

Blarney Castle

The Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's most popular attractions. Located in the village of Blarney in southern Ireland, this castle was built in 1446. The Blarney Stone, also called the Stone of Eloquence, is located at the top of the castle's tower. Legend has it that if you kiss the Blarney Stone, you will never be at a loss for words again. In other words, you will have the gift of gab forever!

Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is located in County Antrim in northern Ireland. It was built in the 1200's by the Earl of Ulster, Richard de Burgh. Dunluce means "strong fort." This amazing castle sits on top of volcanic rock overlooking the ocean. Because of the steep cliffs around the castle, it was a very safe fortress during its time. Today the castle is in ruins, but is still open to the public for tours.

Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle is a medieval fortress built in the 15th century. It overlooks the River Shannon in Country Clair in southern Ireland. This castle is a popular Irish tourist attraction. Many of the rooms in this castle are decorated with Middle Age and Renaissance furniture and paintings. Bunratty Castle is host to feasts twice nightly, complete with Irish harpists, court jesters, and meals created from medieval recipes!

Leprechauns, a huge part of Irish mythology, have been around even longer than Irish castles. Legend has it that leprechauns often live in forests surrounding the castles. Their homes are usually inside oak trees or hollow logs. Undoubtedley, leprechauns have been witness to a lot of fighting at these castles over the years!

Sources:

http://www.destination360.com/europe/ireland/blarney-castle

http://www.medieval-castles.net/irish/bunratty_castle.htm

Published by Bev Cohen

Bev is a freelance writer, mother of two amazing daughters, and drummer in a band. View profile