Visiting the Past in County Limerick
History buffs, or anyone interested in castles, kings and druids, will find a fascinating mix of historical sites in County Limerick.
King John's Castle
Located on King's Island, in Limerick City's Medieval Quarter, King John's Castle has been standing watch over the city since 1210 AD. While the Vikings came first (the remains of their settlement were uncovered in 1900), it's the castle built by England's King John that is the crown jewel, so to speak, of this historic site. It is one of the best preserved Norman medieval castles in Europe, and it's well worth a visit.
St. Mary's Cathedral
Over 850 years old, St. Mary's Cathedral stands tall in Limerick City. It is not only a tourist attraction (tours are available daily, and admittance is 5 Euros), but a functioning cathedral of the Church of Ireland.
Land of the Celts
Located between the towns of Hebertstown and Bruff, Lough Gur is arguably one of Ireland's most impressive archaeological sites. Featuring megalithic remains and ancient stone circles, the area conjures images of Celtic druids and Stone Age peoples.
Castles Galore
King John's Castle may be the most famous castle in County Limerick, but it isn't the only one. There are plenty of castles for history buffs to explore in the area, from Dromore Castle to Adare Castle to Castle Desmond. History comes alive with guided tours and plenty of photo opportunities for visitors.
