Blarney Castle can be found near Cork, towards the Southern part of Ireland. The current main castle and tower were built by the MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty and dates from 1446. There have been multiple buildings, purposes and owners throughout the land’s history. At the top of the castle, after winding through several battlement chambers, accessible rooms, and climbing more than I thought I could possibly climb, steep narrow stairs I reached the Stone of Eloquence, better known as the Blarney Stone. People visiting the castle, and climbing all the way to the top – remember all of the stairs I spoke of earlier- have an opportunity to hang upside down over a very long drop and kiss the stone. Yes, people do this on purpose. This kiss is said to give the gift of eloquence. Traveling from Dublin, Ireland via The PaddyWagon Tours, there was a pit stop at The Rock of Cashel, also known as St Patrick’s Rock and a National Monument of Ireland. The Rock of Cashel founded from the 12th century had more history, amazing arcitecture and beautiful views to explore. Queen Elizabeth II visited the Rock of Cashel during her visit to Ireland in 2011. Taking the bus to and from Dublin allowed me to see so much of Ireland’s amazing countryside. It is a trip worth taking.
