Celtic Soul - Pilgrimage to Ireland

Pilgrimage to Ireland

The Castle Next-Door

Castle Rahinnane was visible across the meadow from my bedroom in the cottage. It was built upon a series of earthworks – ancient raths/forts – the first of which originated between 1000 - 300 BCE. The stone castle that still stands dates from the 15th century and was the residential fort of the Knight of Kerry, the local chieftain who was a member of the Geraldine family.

While exploring the grounds, I found many large black feathers in and around the castle. I was continually drawn back to a short, narrow stone staircase. The sun shining through the slit window (left) into the darkness of the stairwell seemed symbolic of my journey.

There’s nothing quite like a Medieval banquet in a Medieval castle

15th century Bunratty Castle in County Clare. The great hall holds a fine collection of 15th - 18th century furniture, paintings, tapestries and more. The mead was lovely.

East of Limerick

Glenstal Abbey was on my list of places to visit because shortly before going to Ireland I discovered the music of the monks of Glenstal and I wanted to hear them "live and in person". I attended one of the morning services and when everyone had gone, I explored the church. I couldn’t resist standing in the middle of the abbey and singing – the acoustics are marvelous.


	Just inside the gates of the abbey is an expanse of lawn with a number of extraordinary trees. I felt very peaceful in the way that I usually experience in my beloved woods at home.