Blarney Castle, Cork

The Blarney Castle was originally built before AD 1200, however, was destroyed and subsequently rebuilt in 1446 by Cormac MacCarthy. Throughout the years the castle came to the ownership of the Jeffery and Colthrust families and remains to stand to set an example of one of the most durable tower-houses in the country, thanks to the 18-inch thick stone walls.

Today Blarney Castle stands as a reminder of the cultural past of Ireland and a model house where wealthy families used to live. The Blarney Village, which is where the castle is situated, is one of the last estate villages that remains functioning in all of Ireland and is an interesting place to explore on its own. The village was built by the landlord in the 18th century to house all the people who worked at the castle.

The biggest point of attraction of The Blarney Castle is the Blarney Stone, which is a Carboniferous limestone that was built into the battlements of the castle. As the old legend goes, anyone who dares to kiss the stone will be granted a gift of great eloquence and skill at flattery.