Kinsale to Killarney

Before leaving Kinsale (Cionn tSáile), we visited the museum (no photos allowed) and discovered that they had a display about the Lusitania, including a deck chair and other pieces of interest that were washed up on the shore after its sinking in 1915. Kinsale was, in fact, the town from which the rescue operation of the Lusitania's survivors was conducted.

Next we went to St. Multose Church (Church of Ireland), which was named for the saint who founded a monastery on that site in the 6th century. Built in 1190, it is the oldest building in Kinsale. The stone baptismal font is among its interesting features. We also saw the grave sites of two victims of the Lusitania sinking.

  
Left: the baptismal font. Centre: The "unknown victim" was later identified as Margaret MacKenzie Shineman. An inscription was added on a stone (in shadow in the photo). Right: A very old gravestone.

After seeing the church and churchyard, we hit the road for the 1.5-hour drive to Killarney (Cill Airne). It took longer than that, as there were a few spots of congestion. We checked in, had some lunch, and headed out on foot. The centre of Killarney is about a 20-minute walk from the hotel, and is super charming. Tons of brightly coloured shops, B&Bs, hostels, restaurants, and pubs.

We walked along several streets, enjoying the lively Saturday atmosphere, then visited the Franciscan Friary -- a relatively new building, opened in 1879. After, we hit St. Mary's (Church of Ireland), which was built in 1870, and just beautiful. The stained glass was wonderful, and the organ pipes were embellished with designs.

A lot of churches in one day, and far too many photos to put in the blog! We'll be in Killarney for two nights, and will be doing the Ring of Kerry tomorrow, so stay tuned for beautiful seascapes!

The Friary's ornate sanctuary

Organ Pipes at St. Mary's (Church of Ireland), Killarney

St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral, Killarney