Castle · County Tipperary · High Crosses · Ireland in 3,585km · Ireland June 2012 · Monastery, Abbey, Church

Rock of Cashel, Cashel, County Tipperary

Rock of Cashel :: The Rock
Rock of Cashel :: The Rock

What is the saying? Something about never going to the sights in one’s backyard…. Cashel became our ‘home’ away from home for two weeks. Everywhere we looked, there were signs or photos of the Rock of Cashel. We had driven by it a couple of times, but had both agreed that it wasn’t on our VIP list. There was always some other place that seemed a bigger priority as we determined our next stop.

Thanks to Kay, we made our way Thursday morning to the Rock of Cashel. What were we thinking? It was one of the best sights that we toured; clearly understanding why it makes the top ten list of places to visit in Ireland.

Rock of Cashel :: Choir
Rock of Cashel :: Choir

The Rock of Cashel has numerous legends, as well as historical events, that are linked to it. First, the ‘rock’ that the castle sits upon was originally 20 miles down the road.  However, when St. Patrick was completing some banishment … the rock was thrown and landed in Cashel.  It is also a place where St. Patrick supposedly converted the King of Munster.

What is known … it is huge!  Besides the castle ruins, there is also a chapel, a round tower, and a cathedral.  There are also high crosses on the grounds, as well as an active cemetery.  Most of the original buildings were built in the 12th-13th centuries.  It is truly a architectural wonder!

I would truly make sure that it is on your list to see!

Rock of Cashel :: Inner Courtyard
Rock of Cashel :: Inner Courtyard
Rock of Cashel :: South Transept
Rock of Cashel :: South Transept
Rock of Cashel :: Windows in North Transept
Rock of Cashel :: Windows in North Transept
Looking out over Cashel
Looking out over Cashel
Cormac's Chapel
Cormac’s Chapel
Cormac's Chapel
Cormac’s Chapel
Rock of Cashel :: Round Tower
Rock of Cashel :: Round Tower
Rock of Cashel :: Carvings
Rock of Cashel :: Carvings
Rock of Cashel :: Carvings
Rock of Cashel :: Carvings

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