One of Ireland's most famous attractions, the Blarney Stone is housed in Blarney Castle, which is not far from the cruise port at Cobh. However, the Stone and the castle are not all there is to see. On the grounds are a 19th century stately mansion, gardens and beautifully landscaped grounds.
The Blarney StoneAccording to legend, the Blarney Stone is part of the Stone of Scone or Stone of Destiny upon which the Kings of Scotland are crowned. Supposedly, it came to Blarney because the MacCarthy's supplied 5,000 soldiers to fight along side Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn, which ended with the defeat of the English King Edward II The Scottish king was so grateful, that he gave the Stone to the MacCarthy's.
The Stone is said to give those who kiss it, the gift of a form of eloquence. This form of eloquence was first observed in Cormac Teige MacCarthy in 1602. MacCarthy was being pressured by the English to swear allegiance to Queen Elizabeth I and turn over legal title to his lands to the crown. However, MacCarthy would respond by protesting that it was his intention to do that but with a mixture of flattery, excuses and stories, he would explain that it could not be done just yet. So nothing ever happened. After reading yet another of MacCarthy's answers, Queen Elizabeth allegedly exclaimed: "This is all Blarney; what he says he never means!" It is not easy to kiss the Blarney Stone. You have to climb up some 100 steps to the top of Barney Castle. Then holding onto two metal rails, you lean over backwards, lower yourself through the battlements head-first so that you are dangling above the ground, seemingly miles below. The Stone is on the underside of the battlement. A castle employee holds on to you during this ritual. Somewhat surprisingly, there are often long lines to do this despite the height and awkward position. |
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Grounds and GardensThe grounds of the estate are covered in gardens. Next to the castle is the Poison Garden, complete with signs warning visitors not to touch or even smell the plants. The Rock Close that seeks to evoke a mystical atmosphere of Druids, witches and fairies. There is also a Fern Garden. Adding more visual interest to the grounds are the ruins of various old out buildings.
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Cruise destination Ireland - Blarney Castle