What to see in Ennis
- The Riches of Clare Museum:
Clare is a remarkable county and the story of its people
streches from over 6.000 years ago to the present. Its incredible
history is excitingly captured at the Riches of Clare. Beautifully
displayed artifacts, original works of art, enthralling
audio-visual and interactive experiences and dramaticnimages all
combine to provide an exciting glimpse into the rich history and
heritage of Clare.
www.clarelibrary.ie
- Church of Ireland:
The church was built in 1871 and occupies a prominent
position at a corner of Bindon Street.
- DaValera Library:
Originally erected as a Presbyterian Church in 1853 as
the parish church for Ennis and it replaced the old church in
Chapel Lane, which itself was erected in 1736.
www.clarelibrary.ie
- The County Courthouse:
Was erected by the County Clare Grand Jury in 1850.
- O´Connell Street:
It one of the busiest shopping areas in the town.
- Ennis Friary:
The greatest jewel in Ennis crown is the Old Franciscan
Friary, located in an atractive setting near the river.
- Lysaghf´s Lane:
In Lysaghf´s Lane there is an inscribed tablet set in
the wall of a bakery to remind the passer by that the Franciscans
found shelter and protection there during the Penal Days.
- The O´Connell Monument:
Was erected by public subscriptions in 1867. The site is
the place where O´Connell was declared MP for Clare in 1828 an
historic event which was later to result in the passing of the
Catholic Emancipation Act.
- The Maid of Erin:
A commemoration like sized statue dedicated to three
Nationalists Allen, Lakin and O´Brien who in Manchester 1867,
were executed for their role in a Fenian rescue attempt.
- Chapel Lane:
Is an old pedestriam thoroughfare which still retains
much of its period atmosphere.
- The Markets:
Upper and Lower Market Street has been the traditional
venue for the sale of livestock and agricultural produce for a
considerable time.
Killaloe Ballina:
A significant settlement during the stoneage, celtic and
early monastic times, Killaloe Ballina was for over a century also
the seat of Ireland´s High Kings. The most famous of these kings
was Brian Banu (961-1014) who ruled from Kincora from 1002-1014.
His death occured in the hour of this greatest triumph, the defeat
of a major Viking force at the battle of Clontart near Dublin. The
Brian Baru heritage centre at the tourist office fells his story.
From early Christian times Killaloe Ballina was an
important monastic settlement and from the 12th century a
cathedral and ecclesiastical centre. In fact the Killaloe Diocese
is named afther the village.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the two villages
evolved on either bank of the River Shannon. The opening of the
railway and canal with Limerick ushered in a prosperous period and
river navegation became a primary function of the twin settlements.
Today Killaloe Ballina are amongst Ireland´s most picturesque
village and serve as a gateway to the River Shannon and Lough Derg
- The Shannon´s Pleasure Lake.
www.visitclare.net
Kilrush
In its heyday during the late nineteenth century Kilrush
was a busy trading past. Steamers from Limerick linked with the
West Clare Railway to bring passengers to the seaside town of
Kilkee. Today Kilrush is a pleasant market town on the Shannon
Estuary. It has an excellent moderm marina and associated maritime
activities and facilities.
www.kilrush.ie
www.loophead.ie
www.kilkee.ie
Visit the Aran Islands from Doolin
The stunningly beautiful islands are an extension of the
Burren in County Clare. Aran is only five miles from Doolin and a
ferry service out of the part will take you there in less than 30
minutes
www.doolinferry.com
Burren Centre:
Kilfenora - The Burren´s flora, archeology, geology,
legends and history make it unique in Europe.
www.theburrencentre.ie
Craggaunowen Bronze Age Project:
Near Quin - Visitors to Craggaunowen - The Living Past,
Ireland´s original prizewinning, prehistoric park, will encounter
the past being brought dramatically to life. Visitors have the
opportunity to meet characters depicting ancient Celtic Life.
www.shannonheritage.com
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park:
Bunratty - Is the most complete and authentic Medieval
Castle in Ireland. Within its grounds in Bunratty Folk Park. Where
Irish village life at the turn of the century is tellingly
recreated. The Folk Park contains typical 19th century rural and
urban dwelling. The Talbot Collection of agricultura machinery is
one display at Bunratty House which overlooks the Folk Park.
Knappogue Castle:
Quin - Was the pride of forty-two castles built by the
McNamara Tribe who dominated the area for over 1000 years. In
recent times it has been - beautifully restored in 15th century
style and has retained its unique medieval character and
atmosphere.
www.shannonheritage.com
www.shannonferries.com
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