by Rose Mary

Created on: November 24, 2006   Last Updated: April 17, 2007

The Blarney Castle, with its battlemented keep and ruined towers, situated 5 miles north of Cork, Ireland, is the most visited castle. This castle was erected in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, who was the local lord at that time. Apart from the grandeur of this castle sitting on the gracious parkland, the focal point of the castle is the legendary Blarney Stone. Many people from all over the world flock to see this legendary stone. Legend has it that by kissing the stone, this gesture will confer a magical eloquence.

The Blarney Stone is located in the wall below the castle battlements. In order to reach the stone, you need to climb 127 steps to the top of the battlement keep. It is not easy task to kiss the stone. In order to kiss the stone, your hands have to grab hold of the vertical iron rails and someone has to hold you by your feet. You will be suspended backward under the parapet. At this awkward position, you can then kiss the stone. Even though it is not easy to kiss the stone, many people have flocked to this place to do it in order to try its efficacy.

The tradition is said to have originated from a comment made by Queen Elizabeth I of England. Lord Dermot McCarthy had attempted to overwhelm her with his non-stop chatter and verbosity in order to prevent her from taking his estate. The Queen is said to have despaired and made a comment which was believed to have started the tradition. The word "blarney" means cajoling talk or flattery.

Today, little remains of the castle except the keep. Its design and style is typical of a 15th century tower house. Tower houses are small castles or fortified residences built between the 15th and 17th centuries. You can enjoy some walks at the castle grounds and view yew trees and limestone rock formations.

You can choose to have a drink or do some shopping at a village nearby which is only a short walk from the castle. In the village, there are a number of crafts shops and some pubs. You can also visit the Blarney Woollen Mills which sells quality garments and souvenirs.

Blarney Castle is indeed a wonderful place to visit. If you are keen to take a vacation trip and looks forward to some adventure and excitement, you can consider visiting the Blarney Castle. When you are there, perhaps, you would want to kiss the Blarney Stone and prove its efficacy? More information can be found at: http://www.internetbizcenter.com/travel/index.htm

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