Our First Week in Ireland

“Not all those who wander are lost“

J.R.R. Tolkien

We arrived in Ireland Tuesday morning around 6 a.m., that’s 1 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. We are still adjusting to the time difference and experiencing a culture outside our own. The first few days, we had orientation and were busy throughout the day, and were not able to explore and experience much of Ireland. However, during the weekend, we were able to explore some of Limerick and Clare County. We wanted to share some of what we have learned about Ireland and our experiences abroad so far.

Saturday, 26th

This was our first day outside of the university campus. In Limerick City Centre, the town holds a MilkMarket every weekend. This is similar to our farmer’s markets at home. The farmer’s market in Limerick was an outside market where a bunch of goods are sold: fruit, vegetables, honey, meat, fish, desert, bread, homemade goods and more. This was our first time visiting the market and we were a little overwhelmed. There were tables set up inside the MilkMarket and around it. As well as shops a little ways from the market. However, we did get more comfortable with time, after walking around the market a couple of times. We brought fresh fruits, vegetables, and eggs. Alyssa got a banana and chocolate crepe to eat. We were able to see how it was made and it tasted good!

Throughout the city of Limerick and Ireland, modern architecture is mixed in with the past. There are many old limestone castles and walls. As we explored parts of the city, we came across St. Mary’s Cathedral, bridges that cross the Shannon River, and local shops. St. Mary’s Cathedral was established in 1168 CE. Originally, the palace of the late King (Donal Mór O’Brien), once stood where the cathedral is today. The cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Limerick in use today. There are still daily services held within its walls.

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Sunday, 27th (Clare County)

Today, we had a very busy day we explored five places and learned a lot about Irish History, Culture and Superstitions. We took a tour on a bus around Clare county from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. We saw lots of amazing sights and heard interesting tales and history about Ireland.

Lahinch Beach

The first place we visited was the beach. It was nice and cold and windy at the coast. And some people were getting ready to surf in the water that’s 3 degrees Celsius (37 degrees Fahrenheit). I do not know about you, but that’s too cold for me.

The Cliffs of Moher

The next place we got to explore were the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs were formed about 320 million years ago and at its highest point is 702ft. They get their name from the fort “Mothar” that was destroyed during the Napoleonic wars. Located on the top of cliffs is O’Brien’s Tower built in 1835 as a viewing point. We walked along the paths around the cliffs and got to see the beautiful layers of the earth/rock. This was our favorite part of the day and we were able to capture some beautiful pictures.

The Burren, The Galway Bay

Next, we visited the Burren which is a nature preserve with limestone rock. The grooves made within the limestone is from water wearing away at the stone, which is due to it being porous.

Ballyvaughan

This stop was a pit stop, which is a small town. We learned what a “splash and dash” meant. It is a very quick bathroom break and then back on the road again.

Blackhead

Blackhead was found on the way to Ballyvaughan. It is a formation in the hillside in the shape of a head. Can you see the face?

The Portal Tomb – Poulnabrone

This was our last stop of the day. It is a set of stones that form a doorway/portal. It is angled with the sun and a sacred/religious place. When archaeologists excavated the area they found 33 individuals buried underneath it from 4200-2900 BC. The structure is dated to around 2000 BC.

Superstitions and Legends

Throughout the tour we learned a lot of different superstitions and legends that are found in Clare County. Clare County is one of the most superstitious counties in Ireland.

Fairy Trees

There are trees found throughout Ireland that the farmer’s will not cut down due to their belief of fairies. It is said that the fairies congregate at the trees during the night. Also, it is said that if you tied a piece of your cloth around the tree, the fairies will heal you of your sickness.

Sacred Wells

There are wells within Ireland that are known for their mystic powers to cure certain illnesses and diseases. The one in Clare County that we saw was Pinnacle Well. This well and others actually contain(ed) lots of minerals and vitamins that helped people when they were sick.

Mary’s Castle – Leamaneh

Mary had 25 husbands that had all died. After the 25th death, the townspeople were suspicious of her and put her in a hollow tree, because they thought she was a witch. She then cast a curse on the land and its people. If you touched the castle you would be haunted for all eternity. It is even said that you can hear her yowling in the windows on windy and stormy nights.

Conclusion

The first week was a busy one and Sunday was a long and interesting day filled with exploration. We will be updating our blog about our time abroad. Thank you! (Below are more pictures of our adventures)

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