This was another part of our visit to Ireland back in July. Blarney Castle, near Cork, can trace its history back to around 1200 although the current keep dates to the mid 15th century. It has been the centre of conflict, changed hands several times, been damaged, restored and then partially neglected. It is perhaps though best known as home to the Blarney stone, a stone with supposed mythical powers of eloquence bestowed upon those who kiss it. There are many stories of the stones' origin which are largely fantasy tales but it serves as a good tourist attraction and generates a good queue of people willing to lie on their back and lean backwards over the battlement to give it a kiss. Kind of weird really but having gone all the way there I did it as well! For the ladies though its not advisable to go in a skirt, it can be a bit undignified!
The castle also has some extensive gardens and woodland walks and is home to the more recent Blarney House which is also open to the public but here are some images of the castle itself.
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