The belief systems of man kind have changed and altered many times throughout the ages, weaving a web of varied dogmas, fantastical mythology, and ancient folklore. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, your inner anthropologist will be delighted to explore one of the most enchanting and mysterious places on the planet, and to listen to the stories it has to tell. Ireland’s lush, pristine scenery is dotted with medieval castles and Celtic ruins, making it magical in its own right. Here are a few of my favorite sites.
Brú na Bóinne is located to the east in County Meath, and is one of the most important and impressive megalithic sites on the island. Within the site you will find Newgrange, a monument that predates both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids at approximately five-thousand years old. Nobody knows what exactly the structure was used for, though it is widely agreed it holds religious significance. During the Winter Solstice, an important day among Pagans, the sun rises in the perfect location and illuminates the entire chamber. If you take a tour of Newgrange, they will recreate the event for you, and if you are really lucky you may be one of the chosen few who get to experience the real thing.
The Book of Kells is a breathtaking illuminated gospel which has recently reached a new generation thanks to the gorgeous animated film The Secret of Kells. The gospel, with its ornate pages and elegant calligraphy combines Christian word with ancient imagery and is one of Ireland’s most treasured relics. The book was actually created in a Scottish monastery, but was transferred to Kells, Ireland after a Viking raid. Later it was stolen from Kells and found in a ditch. The cover had been torn off, and it is speculated to have been gilded and incrusted with gems. Despite being passed from hand to hand and discarded in the dirt, the 8th century book is amazingly well preserved. The Trinity College Library in Dublin has the Book of Kells on permanent display so that we can all enjoy its beautiful attention to detail.
One of the most famous locations in Ireland, more than three-hundred thousand people venture to Blarney each year, just west of Cork. Visitors from all over the world literally bend over backwards to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Located high on Blarney Castle, kissing the stone is believed to result in the gift of eloquent speech. As legend tells it, Cormac MacCarthy, who built Blarney Castle, asked the goddess Clíodhna to help him get out of a lawsuit. The goddess told him to kiss the first stone he saw the morning of his trial and his smooth talking won the case. This is just one of many stories you are likely to hear during your trip to the castle.
Then there is the landscape. I highly recommend renting a car or hiring a chauffer in Ireland, because even if all you do is drive around, it will be worth it. So many tales are attached to the landscape. If you keep your eyes open you may even spot a faerie!
[box]Melissa Cohen is a travel writer from Portland, Maine. She recommends Auto Europe for your next car rental in Ireland.[/box]
