Rock of Cashel

Today we finished our two-week extravaganza by touring the Rock of Cashel.  It was COLD and WINDY today (like everyday we've been here)!  According to the locals, this is the coldest "summer" they've had in many years.  It's going to be a shock going from 55 degrees to 106.

 

According to local mythology, the Rock of Cashel originated in the Devil's Bit, a mountain 20 miles (30 km) north of Cashel when St. Patrick banished Satan from a cave, resulting in the Rock's landing in Cashel.  Cashel is reputed to be the site of the conversion of the King of Munster by St. Patrick in the 5th century.

The Rock of Cashel was the traditional seat of the kings of Munster for several hundred years prior to the Norman invasion. In 1101, the King of Munster, Muirchertach Ua Briain, donated his fortress on the Rock to the Church. The picturesque complex has a character of its own and is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe.  Few remnants of the early structures survive; the majority of buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                  At last, we arrived at our wonderful cottage in Shannon.  We're about 3 miles from the airport and will fly out in the morning. 

So long, beautiful Ireland!  Until we meet again!