Kilmainham Gaol and Ruins
On our way out of Dublin, we stopped at the Kilmainham Gaol, the gaol (jail) where rebellion leaders were executed in 1916. It was very interesting to learn about another country's quest for independence. The harshness of the gaol and the execution site put the price of freedom into perspective.
After a delicious meal of shepherd's pie, we were off to the Rock of Cashel, an ecclesiastical center from the time of St. Patrick. The ruins were impressive and interesting, again packed full of history. We took in a little extra history by hiking down to a second ruin, a church in an open field a short walk away. Our day wrapped up with a fun group outing in Kinsale at Kitty O'Se's Pub. We had "pub food" for supper, but it was more like a three course meal! It was excellent as usual. After dinner, we were treated to a private concert by Liam O'Reardon and Ger Walsh. They were fantastic! The owner of the pub even came out and sang a bit with them. It's fun to see how music is embedded into the fabric of so many Irish lives. |
People and Culture
A Meal with New FriendsMeals together are a great chance to get to know one another. We really enjoyed spending time with other tour members.
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Sharing the ExperienceWe had more great local guides. Their insights, passion and knowledge are priceless and add depth to our travels.
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More New FriendsWe were joined for our pre-concert meal with more new friends from our trip. Food, company and music were all great!
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Places and Sights
Kilmainham GaolOur stop at Kilmainham Gaol was filled with perspective and a history of Ireland's struggle for independence.
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Rock of CashelWe enjoyed our visit to the ruins of the Rock of Cashel and marveled at the structure and lives of past times.
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Kitty O'Se'sOur group meal was at an awesome little place called Kitty O'Se's. The food and the entertainment we both top notch!
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Music and the Arts
Beauty in the DarknessEven in the cold darkness of the gaol, there was art to be seen as in the case of this painting on the walls of a cell.
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ScultpureThis sculpture near the gaol reflected the feeling and solidarity of the inmates who fought for Ireland's freedom.
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Private ConcertLiam and Ger put on a great private show after a fantastic dinner at Kitty O'Se's. They were both funny and talented musicians!
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