Ireland is packed full of “can’t miss” attractions to visit, so choosing the highlights can be a daunting task. My wife Julie, however, loves combing through tour books and making a spreadsheet of places to see, making the most of every waking moment. Sometimes we drop something off the list here or there when we run behind schedule or find an unexpected treasure, but the overall result is an amazing kaleidoscope.
Powerscourt is a relatively young Irish attraction, built on the site of a Norman castle in 1731 for Richard Wingfield, the 1st Viscount Powerscourt.
In 1974, a fire gutted the inside of the mansion, but the gardens are meticulously maintained, including gates, urns and statues collected during the European travels of the 7th Viscount Powerscourt in the mid-1800s.
Not far from Powerscourt is Kilkenny Castle, overlooking the River Nore. The Irish Parliament often met at this Norman fortress during the 13th Century.
In the 1390s, the Anglo-Norman Butler Family rose to power, which they held for 500 years. The city of Kilkenny is beautiful, with many restored historic buildings.
Kilkenny Castle was occupied by the Butler Family until 1935, and in 1967 donated it to Ireland. We enjoyed touring this wonderful piece of history.
Powerscourt is a relatively young Irish attraction, built on the site of a Norman castle in 1731 for Richard Wingfield, the 1st Viscount Powerscourt.In 1974, a fire gutted the inside of the mansion, but the gardens are meticulously maintained, including gates, urns and statues collected during the European travels of the 7th Viscount Powerscourt in the mid-1800s.Not far from Powerscourt is Kilkenny Castle, overlooking the River Nore. The Irish Parliament often met at this Norman fortress during the 13th Century.
In the 1390s, the Anglo-Norman Butler Family rose to power, which they held for 500 years. The city of Kilkenny is beautiful, with many restored historic buildings.
Kilkenny Castle was occupied by the Butler Family until 1935, and in 1967 donated it to Ireland. We enjoyed touring this wonderful piece of history.
