So, in no particular order, here's the first batch:
Augnanure Castle, located along the main road from Galway to Clifden (Connemara region). This is a 16th century tower fort, and there are over two hundred remains of these houses in Co. Galway. This was one built by the O’Flahertys, scourge of Galway Town, known for kicking the severed heads of their enemies around like a soccer ball. Don't they just sound precious? I'd just love to invite them to one of my dinner parties.
Me, being attacked by one of the devil watchdogs of Aughnanure! These great watchdogs are known for wandering over and collapsing in unsuspecting visitors' laps, which this one did shortly after this photo was taken.
Ruins of a 13th century church, located in the Burren (one of our two favorite regions in Ireland). To this day, local people are still buried in the ruins of churches. It's a bit jarring to see modern tombstones scattered about such old ruins.
Kilmacdaugh, an early Christian monastery complex, the first building of which was built in the 7th century. The complex was in use up until the 16th century. The big round tower is an example of the towers incorporated into these monastery complexes, and they were used by the monks to escape Viking and Irish marauders. The entrances were built 20+ feet up and could only be accessed by rope or ladder, which the monks pulled up behind them. We only knew about this place because Chris had heard of it in one of his Irish history classes. It was one of our favorite experiences.
The Twelve Pins Mountain range of Connemara (our other favorite region). The only word for this place is "breathtaking". The large bushes with the yellow flowers are gorse, and they carry the most incredible smell of coconut-- don't ask me to explain it, because I can't. I wish I could get gorse to grow in Georgia, but I have a feeling that it's impossible.
A typical example of a western Ireland “highway”. Oh, I prayed, dear readers, how I prayed (wait till you see the picture of the tour bus):
The Giant's Causeway, close to the northernmost point of Ireland. The geometric shapes were formed by cooling lava. We spent a whole morning here, hiking up to the cliff above and back down to the Causeway itself. It was a gorgeous day, and a really amazing experience.
Somewhere in the mountains north of Donegal:
The grave of W.B. Yeats and his wife George, located in the cemetary of Drumcliffe Church, Co. Sligo.
Well, I hope that you've enjoyed the first installment. Look for more pictures in the near future!
Kimberley
