Attraction Guide: Blarney Castle, Cork, Ireland

Blarney Castle Guide

Kiss the Blarney Stone: A Journey Through History and Legend Guide

Blarney Castle, nestled in the heart of County Cork, is a must-see for any visitor to Ireland. More than just a castle, it's a journey through history, legend, and breathtaking natural beauty. The main draw, of course, is the Blarney Stone, said to bestow the gift of eloquence upon those who kiss it. But the castle and its surrounding gardens offer so much more to explore. The history of Blarney Castle is rich and complex. The current structure dates back to 1446, built by the MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty. However, the site has been fortified since at least the 10th century. The MacCarthys were known for their cunning and resilience, famously holding out against English forces for years. The legend of the Blarney Stone itself is shrouded in mystery, with various stories linking it to the Stone of Scone, a witch, or even a fragment of the Holy Land. Visitors can explore the castle ruins, climb to the top to kiss the Blarney Stone (with assistance from a staff member, of course!), and wander through the stunning Blarney Castle Gardens. These gardens are a diverse landscape featuring everything from a poison garden to a fern garden, a rock close and serene waterways. The gardens are a delight to explore, offering something for everyone. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition directly linked to Blarney Castle itself, you'll find plenty of traditional Irish pubs and restaurants in the nearby village of Blarney offering hearty fare like Irish stew and seafood chowder.