There’s plenty to discover!
By Daniel O’Neill
Looking to learn more about your heritage and soak up some of the rich history this nation has to offer? Look no further than Ireland’s Ancient East, a great way to explore Irish history and understand our past through ancient architecture and landscapes.
Don’t miss your chance to visit ancient sites that were built thousands of years ago and learn about what life was like hundreds or even thousands of years ago!
If you are a fan of castles, Ballyhack Castle in Wexford is the place for you. The five-storey castle is believed to have been built by the Knights Hospitallers of St John around 1450 and features a small chapel complete with a piscina, aumbry and altar. The castle features defence measures like a murder hole, an opening that you could throw rocks from or pour boiling water, hot sand or boiling oil from as well as decorative items like assorted items of replica armour. Entry for the castle is free and it reopened on 13 May.
Dunmore Cave located in Kilkenny is a favourite among tourists. The cave features a stunning display of limestone created over the course of millions of years. The cave has been known for hundreds of years, first mentioned in the ninth century ‘Triads of Ireland’, where it is referred to as one of the darkest places in Ireland. Several ancient tales mention the cave, the most notable being ‘Annals of the Four Masters’ which tells how the Viking leader Guthfrith of Ivar massacred a thousand people there in AD 928. While it’s not confirmed this happened, there is evidence of Viking activity at some point in time. Admission for the cave with a guided tour is €5.
Kilkenny Castle is another favourite among history lovers. Built in the twelfth century, the castle features a variety of facilities like a library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms. There is a picture gallery located in the east wing of the castle and was once used as a place to store exquisite paintings. Entry is €8 for adults, and families can purchase a family pass for €20.
The Famine Warhouse in Ballingarry, Tipperary is definitely a place avid history fans should check out. This seemingly ordinary farmhouse is the home of a bloody siege and a monument of the Young Irelander Rebellion of 1848. The house is now a museum and its contents include the history of the Young Irelander Rebellion, the trials of its leaders, their exile in Australia and escape to the USA. Admission is free and the Warhouse is open year round.
The National Botanic Garden of Ireland in Kilmacurragh, Wicklow is the go-to destination for those looking to take in the natural beauty of the country. The garden features a breath-taking display of all sorts of flowers and foliage of all different shapes, sizes and colours. You’ll also get the chance to see some of the gardens inhabitants walking around the garden such as the iconic red squirrel. It’s the perfect day out for the whole family, even the dog (as long as they’re kept on a leash). Admission is free and tours are provided.
The Clonmacnoise Monastic Site at Clonmacnoise, Athlone. Co. Offaly is another go to for history lovers. The site contains a cathedral, two round towers, three high crosses, nine churches and over 700 early Christian grave slabs. The monastery was founded in the 6th century by St Ciarán and soon attracted people from across Europe to study and learn. The original high cross is on display in a special visitor room along with several grave slabs. Admission is €8 per adult, or you can purchase a family ticket for €20.
Whether you're an avid history fan looking to learn more about history or you're just looking for some fun local activities to entertain the kids through summer, Ireland’s Ancient East is your go to. Whether it be ancient architecture or interesting landscapes, Ireland’s Ancient East is sure to have something for everyone.