Bunratty

If you ever come to Ireland and to the mid-lands,Bunratty Castle is a wonderful place to visit. It is a short distance from Limerick City. The International Studies Office sponsored a free tour to the Village and Angela and I decided to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. As I mentioned in my previous blog entry, it has been forty years since I was at the castle and that was for a medieval banquet, so I never really toured the castle. This 16th century structure was restored in late 50's by an English couple who bought the property for 1000 pounds. They then undertook not just the restoration, but also the furnishing of the structure with the most remarkable collection of European antiques and relics including gorgeous tapestries, carved chests and side boards, 16th century iron clocks that kept time by the hour, and much more. The guided tour was excellent and what truly amazed me is that only few areas are restricted from viewing or access. In most museums, such antiques are viewed through glass or roped off so that visitors may only observed them from a distance. Not the case at Bunratty. Most everything was accessible and no one seemed concerned when a student would touch a piece or sit in a chair. I certainly understand the need for such restriction's, but the experience was more relaxed and joyful for the lack of them. One of the highlights was the opportunity to ascend the wedge-shaped castle steps, ypical the narrow and steep circular stair leading all the way to the top of the turret. It was worth the climb just for the views of the Shannon River Valley below. It may be that Bunratty is one of the most intact castles in Ireland, or at lease in this part of Ireland. It is well worth a visit.I will post some pictures on Facebook.

Bunratty Village also has many thatched roof cottages of various sizes open for exploration. There are lovely restaurants, pubs, and shops located right across the road from the castle. The opportunity to visit was greatly appreciated and the time at Bunratty most enjoyable.


Many thanks to UL and the International Studies staff for treating us all to such a terrific time, including lunch. It's good to be a student!

Sending love from Glocca Morra.