Conamara‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪7‬개의 동굴

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A Caisleán / O'Briens Castle Caisleán Uí Bhriain (O' Briens Castle) was built in the 14th century. It was built within an older ring fort called Dún Formna, which is thought to date from 400 BC. As well as fantastic views of the island, there are also magnificent views from the Cliffs of Moher, stretching to the left to the Burren, across Galway Bay to the 12 Pins of Connemara and to the west to Inis Meáin and Inis Mór. On a fine day you can even see the Kerry Mountains in the distance. It's worth taking your camera, especially for a spectacular sunset. The castle is a rectangular keep built by the O'Briens. They were a clan from County Clare who ruled the islands and large parts of Clare in the Middle Ages. From this castle they were able to control the shipping routes to Galway and are said to have operated protection rackets there. Due to its strategic location the castle was the subject of numerous competing interests. It was captured by the O'Flahertys around 1582 and was in use until it was supposedly captured and destroyed by Cromwell in 1652. The original entrance led to the first floor and was accessed via an external wooden staircase. Inside there was a hall taking up the whole of the first floor with an internal staircase in the SW wall leading up to the parapets. The ground floor was originally a basement with three vaulted chambers accessed from the first floor. Look out for the corbel of a watchtower which survives on the external wall and has a human face carved into it. The original Dún Formna has been restored a number of times throughout its history. It dates from the same period as the more famous Dún Aonghasa on Inis Mór and probably contained some clocháns, of which no trace remains today. (Source: https://www.rothai-inisoirr.com/an-caislean/)

We passed the cow pasture...and it went well

Walk to the castle, behind it there is a path to the old stables. Behind it a road runs up, you can go through the gate over the meadow and you arrive at the sky road. Just watch out for the cars there.

Wikipedia (O'Brien's Castle (Inisheer) (Irish: Caisleán Uí Bhriain), 2022-11-04): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/O'Brien's_Castle_(Inisheer) https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dún_Formna “… A ringfort once stood on the site, named Dún Formna ... and dated to between the 5th century BC and 1st century AD. …” Wikipedia (List of national monuments in County Galway, 2024-08-09): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_national_monuments_in_County_Galway “41.07 … O'Brien's Castle (Great Fort, Furmina Castle) … Cashel”

Ashford Castle, a stunning medieval castle on the shores of Lough Corrib near the town of Cong in County Mayo, is one of Ireland's most magnificent and historic buildings. Originally built in the 13th century by a noble Anglo-Norman family, the castle has a long and fascinating history spanning several centuries. In the 19th century, Ashford Castle was purchased and both restored and expanded by Benjamin Guinness, a member of the famous brewing family. His son, Arthur Guinness, 1st Baron Ardilaun, was responsible for creating the extensive gardens and forests, which are now decorated with exotic plants from all over the world. Since 1939, the castle has served as one of Ireland's most exclusive 5-star hotels, attracting guests from all over the world, including numerous celebrities and royalty. Visiting Ashford Castle is not only a trip back in time, but also an opportunity to experience the luxurious amenities and exceptional service of one of the world's leading hotels. The magnificent gardens and picturesque lake provide ample opportunities for walking and exploring in some of Ireland's most beautiful scenery. Access to the grounds of Ashford Castle is normally reserved for hotel guests, but there are routes to allow viewing, such as the footbridge at Monk's Fishing House behind the abbey, which offers free entry. However, visitors should inform themselves in advance about the current access conditions and possible restrictions.

A very old fortified house with a wall for additional protection. This is what we call a ring castle. This was probably already in the 5th century BC. Built in 200 BC and has long since been abandoned. There is still a lot to see. And the view from here is wonderful.

There are many stone houses along Sky Road, the age of which is difficult to estimate. A lot of things are obviously newer than they look. ;-)