Tuesday, August 24, 2010

The Burren

The Burren is an area in the north of County Clare that's just fascinating. Megalithic portal tombs, medieval ruins, Celtic high crosses, etc. An archaeologist's wet dream. I've been here for two days but have only seen a fraction of what's on offer. The portal tomb at Poulnabrone is impressive - I was amazed at the size of it. It's fantastically well preserved. The limestone landscape is interesting too.
Poulnabrone Portal Tomb

The Cliffs of Moher are worth seeing too but........... the wind! Gale force. 8 euros to park at the cliffs.
Cliffs of Moher

Kilfenora Cathedral has a collection of 11th century Celtic High Crosses which are also worth seeing. The carvings have been worn away in some places but, overall, they are remarkably well preserved. They stand under a specially constructed protective roof now. Makes the cathedral look like it has a greenhouse, but it's all in a good cause.

Only the larger towns in these parts have ATMs and many smaller villages don't have credit card facilities. It's wise to keep a stash of cash in reserve.

Ireland is a strange land. It's kind of in the real world, yet it's not.

Later....

2 comments:

9fragments - ClareJStrahan said...

The Irish say it's part magic, don't they?

Julie said...

They're right. :)