The Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Athlone is a beautiful Roman Catholic church. It is believed to have been built between 1932 and 1939 and is very famous for its stained glass windows. The church is in close vicinity to tourist attractions like Athlone Castle and is a very popular location.
Constructed in 1129 as a wooden fort, Athlone Castle became a Motte-and-Bailey in 1210. Also referred to as the Adamson Castle, some of the notable features here include the Sally Gate, gun and bow loops and many more. Reopened in 2012 after a refurbishment, the castle today has exhibition spaces with audio-visual equipment and 3D maps.
Located in Offaly County, the Monastery of Clonmacnoise dates back to as early as the 6th Century. At this time, this monastery was built of wooden structures. The present monastery dates back to the 12th Century when the existing monastery was replaced. This abbey is made from stone and boasts of Romanesque architectural elements. This historic abbey features multiple temples, crosses, a tower and a cathedral. Due to its periodic built, this abbey interests many history and culture enthusiasts and provides guided tours giving knowledge about the rich heritage of the region.
Sir Lawrence Parsons was offered the spectacular Birr Castle in the year 1620. Ever since, the castle serves as the private residence of the Parsons, with the castle gardens and grounds remaining accessible to the public. Occupying the sprawling expanse here is Ireland's Historic Science Centre. The museum showcases the notable works of renowned Irish scientists, especially their contributions in the field of botany and astronomy. A 19th-century telescope called the 'Great Telescope' is a crowd favorite here. The castle welcomes droves of discerning tourists looking to experience the opulence and brilliance on display.
Leviathan of Parsonstown is an impressive 72-foot (1.8 meters) reflecting telescope, built by William Parsons, the third Earl of Rosse. An aspirant of astronomy himself, Parsons managed to build this telescope using a unique mounting technique, which has not been used since. The visual and light-accumulating capabilities of this telescope are what make it a rare and magnificent creation. Leviathan of Parsonstown ranks among the largest reflecting telescopes in the world. Located on the grounds of the Birr Castle, the telescope boasts a legendary status.
Standing tall in the center of the heritage town of Birr is the Cumberland Column. Commemorating the Duke of Cumberland, the column is the first structure of its kind in all of Ireland. This prominent urban landmark dominates the town square with its square pedestal and a towering Doric column. This 18th-century marvel was designed by Samuel Chearnley. The column makes for an unmissable attraction in Birr. When in town, do head to the Cumberland Column for a photo op.
Constructed in the 12th Century by Normans, Redwood Castle remained under Norman occupation till the 14th Century. Redwood Castle exhibits certain architectural elements common to other Irish ramparts built in the same period. It is found on a small hill and was restored by the Egan family. Today, the fortress is the region's biggest tower house to still survive. Visitors can explore the castle and its hidden passageways, staircases and chambers.
Sir Lawrence Parsons was offered the spectacular Birr Castle in the year 1620. Ever since, the castle serves as the private residence of the Parsons, with the castle gardens and grounds remaining accessible to the public. Occupying the sprawling expanse here is Ireland's Historic Science Centre. The museum showcases the notable works of renowned Irish scientists, especially their contributions in the field of botany and astronomy. A 19th-century telescope called the 'Great Telescope' is a crowd favorite here. The castle welcomes droves of discerning tourists looking to experience the opulence and brilliance on display.
The Castlestrange Scribed Stone is one of the best examples of its kind in Europe and provides a fascinating look at Neolithic art. This small, rounded stone dates from the last centuries BC. It is decorated with carved curvilinear ornamentation in the Celtic La Tene manner. No one is sure what significance the carvings had to the ancient residents of this area, though some experts believe they were religious in nature. Contact Boyle tourist office for further information.
Located in Offaly County, the Monastery of Clonmacnoise dates back to as early as the 6th Century. At this time, this monastery was built of wooden structures. The present monastery dates back to the 12th Century when the existing monastery was replaced. This abbey is made from stone and boasts of Romanesque architectural elements. This historic abbey features multiple temples, crosses, a tower and a cathedral. Due to its periodic built, this abbey interests many history and culture enthusiasts and provides guided tours giving knowledge about the rich heritage of the region.
Situated in the property of Castlestrange House, Castlestrange Stone is a unique artifact. As the name suggests, this is a rock and is believed to be dating back to as early as Iron Age Era. This granite features spiral designs carved into it. Though the specific year of this stone is difficult to gauge, it is said it can be dated between 500BCE and 1st Century. Due to its historic background, Castlestrange Stone is listed as an important National Monument and is among the only three such boulders found in Ireland.