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At first glance, the east of Ireland boasts soft green fields, busy little towns and gentle rolling rivers but a deeper look reveals a landscape rich in wonder and brimming with incredible tales: prehistoric tombs haunted by the past, castles rocked by bloody sieges and stunning monastic sites that once drew scholars from all over Europe.
Welcome to Ireland's Ancient East, a vast playground of incredible history, compelling characters and, yes, beautiful green pastures. Comprising 17 counties that lie east of the River Shannon and tracing over 5,000 years worth of history, it is here where the past comes alive with every step taken.
As you journey through this region, you'll have the chance to experience Ireland's emerging food scene, celebrating artisanal producers and local ingredients. There's also an extensive festival calendar offering anything and everything from jazz and opera events to film screenings and walking tours. You can also experience Ireland's celebrated culture at a traditional Irish pub where you'll hear plenty of stories from locals and even leave with a few of your own.
With so much at your fingertips, it can be difficult to know where to start. From the Stone Age to the Viking era, medieval times to early Christian settlements, the span includes reminders from virtually every significant period in history but all are linked by a deep well of stories that friendly locals are more than keen to share with visitors.
Ancient Times
In County Meath sits Brú na Bóinne, the most concentrated collection of ancient monuments in all of Europe (50 structures, to be exact) and one of the most important prehistoric landscapes in the world. Arguably the most famous structure is Newgrange, a 5,000 years old passage tomb and UNESCO World Heritage site that predates the ancient Pyramids of Giza. Each year, on the winter solstice, a beam of sunlight travels up the stone-lined passage, illuminating the inner chamber. Quite literally, it's an ancient architectural masterpiece.
Newgrange
Early Christianity
A sense of peace and tranquility pervades the “valley of two lakes” at Glendalough in County Wicklow, where St. Kevin founded his 6th century monastic site. Walk the trails, explore the village and take in the incredible views of this idyllic valley. A visit to Clonmacnoise in County Offlay is equally as special. Here, you'll discover round towers, high crosses and the literacy and artistic creativity that flourished before Vikings invaders landed on Irish shores. All this exploring can work up quite a thirst so a stop at Athlone's Sean's Bar, considered one of the oldest pubs in Ireland dating back to 900AD, is well advised.
Glendalough
Viking Heritage
Bearing down on an unsuspecting island in the late 8th century, the Vikings went on to loot monasteries, battle kings and make off with priceless treasures - but they also laid the foundations for many Irish towns and cities. Discover their legacy at Waterford's Treasures, a trio of museums located in Ireland's oldest city. While there, sample a blaa, a doughy white bread roll unique to the town and visit Waterford Crystal, one of the most prestigious glass brands in the world.
Castles To Behold
Many castles in Ireland symbolize the medieval and Norman eras, but in many cases the stories go back much further than the castle itself. At the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, it's said that Saint Patrick converted the High King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century, where the saint accidently pierced the King's foot with his croizer. The King didn't object to the pain believing it to be part of the ceremony.
Kilkenny Castle
Equally impressive is Kilkenny Castle, the medieval jewel of Kilkenny city, which was once sold for just £50. While in Kilkenny, stop by the Smithwick's Experience and uncover how a few thirsty monks discovered ale when trying to purify water back in 1231 (that is, of course, before sampling the local brew yourself).
Maritime Heritage
Ireland's relationship with the sea stretches back millennia. In County Wexford's Hook Head, explore the oldest operational lighthouse (800 years old, to be exact) with a guided tour and spectacular 360-degree views. For more recent history, head to the port town of Cobh in County Cork, where you'll find rows of multicolored houses filled with emigrant stories from darker days. It's believed over 2.5 million people departed from here between 1848 and 1950. Cobh was also the last port of call for the Titanic, and offers a Heritage Center and Titanic Experience for any visitors who want to dive a little deeper.
Cobh, Port of Cork
Exploring all that Ireland's Ancient East has to offer can likely not be achieved in a lifetime, let alone one holiday. It's a place to visit, learn, dream and absolutely return to time and time again. From history buffs to foodies, old to young, this oft-overlooked region really does have something for everyone -- and is ripe to let any imagination run wild.
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Discover Ireland's Ancient East
At first sight, Ireland's Ancient East is carpeted by lush landscapes and idyllic towns, framed by the River Shannon and the Irish Sea. But this land is also full of secrets. Just ask the locals and stories will spring to life.
