These 10 famous landmarks in Ireland show its rich history and stunning landscapes. They are stunning places to visit on a trip to Ireland.
Ireland truly is one of the best countries in the world to visit for natural beauty.
Famous Landmarks In Ireland
1. Cliffs of Moher
Located on the western coast of County Clare, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks in Ireland for natural beauty. They stretch for about 14 kilometres (9 miles) and rise up to 214 meters (702 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean in County Clare.
The cliffs are named after an old fort called “Mothar” that once stood in the area.
The cliffs are home to a diverse range of wildlife. You can spot various bird species, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and fulmars, nesting on the cliff ledges. The surrounding grasslands also support a rich ecosystem of flora and fauna.
You’ll find a prominent stone tower called O’Brien’s Tower when there. It was built in 1835 as a viewing point for Victorian tourists and offers panoramic views of the cliffs and surrounding areas. Today, it serves as a focal point for visitors and a reminder of the cliffs’ long-standing popularity.
2. Blarney Castle
Situated near Cork, Blarney Castle is famous for its Blarney Stone. According to legend, kissing the stone bestows the gift of eloquence or “the gift of the gab” upon the kisser.
The castle itself dates back to the 15th century and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is easily one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland.
Blarney Castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, collectively known as the Blarney Castle Gardens. These gardens cover about 60 acres and feature various themed sections, including the Poison Garden, the Rock Close, and the Fern Garden.
The gardens are known for their diverse plant life, including rare species and vibrant displays.
Blarney Castle and its gardens offer you a chance to immerse yourself in Irish history, folklore, and natural beauty. It is worth noting that the castle can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, so you may want to plan your visit accordingly.
3. Giant’s Causeway
Found in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland. It features approximately 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns, which were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago.
The basalt columns at the Giant’s Causeway form a vast interlocking pattern, with approximately 40,000 columns stretching along the coastline. The columns are mostly hexagonal, although some have four, five, or seven sides. The symmetry and precision of the columns are awe-inspiring.
The Giant’s Causeway is set against a stunning coastal backdrop, with dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and panoramic views of the North Atlantic Ocean. You can take scenic walks along the coastal trails, enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
4. Trinity College Dublin
Located in the heart of Dublin, Trinity College is Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Campanile and the Old Library, which houses the famous Book of Kells, a lavishly illustrated medieval manuscript.
In addition to the Old Library and the Book of Kells, Trinity College Library is the largest research library in Ireland. It houses millions of books, manuscripts, journals, and other valuable resources.
The library is a hub of academic activity and provides a serene environment for study and research. Trinity College Dublin is not only a centre for education and research but also a popular tourist destination in Dublin.
You can explore the historic campus, visit the Old Library and the Book of Kells exhibition, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of one of Ireland’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning and one of the famous landmarks in Ireland.
5. Kilmainham Gaol
Situated in Dublin, Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played a significant role in Ireland’s history. Many Irish revolutionaries were imprisoned and executed here during the struggle for independence. Today, it serves as a museum and offers guided tours.
Take a guided tour that provides a glimpse into the prison’s history, the living conditions of prisoners, and the political events associated with it.
The museum exhibits artefacts, photographs, and displays making it one of the famous landmarks in Ireland that sheds light on the struggle for independence.
Visiting Kilmainham Gaol offers a poignant and educational experience for those interested in Irish history, particularly the struggle for independence. The site allows visitors to learn about the lives and sacrifices of the political prisoners who were once held within its walls, and to reflect upon Ireland’s journey to nationhood.
6. Newgrange
Located in County Meath, Newgrange is a prehistoric monument older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. It is a passage tomb constructed around 3200 BC and is known for its impressive stone carvings and astronomical significance.
Newgrange is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of the ancient people who built it making it one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland today.
Its alignment with astronomical phenomena and the elaborate megalithic art make it a significant archaeological site and a source of wonder and fascination for visitors.
7. Rock of Cashel
Situated in County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel is a medieval complex consisting of a towering castle, a round tower, a chapel, and various other historic buildings. It was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and later became an important ecclesiastical site.
The Rock of Cashel features a unique collection of medieval buildings, including a round tower, a Gothic cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque chapel known as Cormac’s Chapel, and a 13th-century castle. These structures showcase different architectural styles and offer insight into the religious and political history of Ireland.
Visiting the Rock of Cashel provides an opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the architectural marvels and historical significance of this icon of the famous landmarks in Ireland.
Its commanding presence, stunning views, and historical charm make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in Ireland’s ancient past.
8. Kylemore Abbey
Nestled in the Connemara region of County Galway, Kylemore Abbey is a picturesque Benedictine monastery founded in 1920. Its stunning location beside a lake and against the backdrop of the Twelve Bens mountain range makes it a popular tourist attraction.
The abbey features stunning Victorian Gothic architecture, with a combination of grey limestone and red sandstone.
The building is striking and boasts turrets, battlements, and a central clock tower. Its design is reminiscent of a castle, adding to its charm and grandeur.
The abbey is surrounded by stunning gardens and lush woodlands, making it a paradise for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. The Victorian Walled Garden is a highlight, featuring a restored glasshouse and a variety of colourful flowers, plants, and vegetables.
The abbey’s tranquil ambience and stunning surroundings make it a popular tourist destination in the heart of Connemara.
9. Belfast City Hall
Located in the heart of Belfast, the City Hall is a magnificent example of classical Renaissance-style architecture. Completed in 1906, it serves as the headquarters of Belfast City Council and is open to the public for tours.
The building features various public spaces that are accessible to visitors. The most notable is the Great Hall, a magnificent space with marble pillars, stained glass windows, and a grand staircase. The Great Hall hosts important events, including formal receptions and civic ceremonies.
Belfast City Hall stands as an impressive symbol of Belfast’s civic pride and heritage. Its striking architecture and central location make it a significant cultural and historical site worth visiting when exploring the city.
10. Skellig Michael
Situated off the coast of County Kerry, Skellig Michael is a rugged, uninhabited island known for its ancient monastic settlement.
The island’s beehive huts and stone staircases were built by monks around the 6th century and provide a unique glimpse into Ireland’s early Christian history.
The island is home to a diverse array of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and storm petrels. The surrounding waters also support a variety of marine life.
The island’s cliffs, with their jagged formations and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, create a breathtaking and otherworldly landscape. Visiting Skellig Michael offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this ancient monastic settlement.
Skellig Michael gained international fame when it was featured in the Star Wars film franchise. It served as the location for the secluded Jedi temple in “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” and “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi.” The films brought increased attention to the island and its unique beauty.
Its combination of historical significance, natural grandeur, and Star Wars association make it a truly remarkable destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience in the country making it one of the most famous landmarks in Ireland.
Travel Ireland
Those are just a few of the many famous landmarks in Ireland, each with its own historical, cultural, or natural significance.
For more on Ireland take a look at the 15 best documentaries about Ireland to watch.
For more on travel take a look at my guides to Britain.
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