Ringaskiddy, Ireland...

Our first stop this morning was Cork City, to see the St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral a Gothic Revival three spire Church of Ireland cathedral in the city of Cork… What a magnificent structure! Then we went to the University of College Cork formerly Queens University. Liam showed us around the city stopping at the City Market known as the English Market, this is an enclosed market that has been trading since 1788. We went up to the top of St. Patrick’s Hill for a panoramic view of the city. On our way out of the city we drove through Corks Shandon residential area heading for the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. The Rock of Cashel dates back to the 4th century when the Eóghanachta clan claimed it as their base, building a fortress on the hill. For about 400 years, the Rock of Cashel was a center of power in Ireland, and later, a site of religious significance. It was here that St. Patrick baptized King Aengus, making him Ireland’s first Christian ruler and giving the Rock the alternative name of St. Patrick’s Rock. Walking around inside the cathedral, it was easy to imagine the empty window frames filled with stained glass, shining colorful rays of light into the cold, stone interior. Although time had weathered the grave markers, it added a certain mystique to the site, making it impossible not to wonder about the people laid to rest here so long ago. Back in the day The Rock of Cashel must have been one exquisite structure as the remains leave you in awe. From the Rock you can see St. Mary’s Abby in the distance. What a great stop! Next Liam took us down a country back road to Athassel Priory the largest medieval Abby in Ireland. We walked across a field to the Abby. This Abby sits on 4 acres and the mere size of the structure is impressive. Starting our drive back to Ringaskiddy, we stopped at Cahir Castle. In the quaint town of Cahir. The incredible 13th-15th century Cahir Castle, is widely regarded as one of the best-preserved castles in Ireland. It can be found on a rocky island on the River Suir in Tipperary. We cannot say enough about our time in Ireland, a wonderful place, very friendly people and an excellent guide Liam. Tomorrow our last port in Ireland…Dublin!