Tour an ancient hilltop settlement to explore centuries-old buildings and to see religious art and sacred vessels from the Middle Ages.
Perched on top of a green hill surrounded by gorgeous Tipperary countryside is a clutch of medieval buildings known as the Rock of Cashel. Among them are a 12th-century tower, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral and a 15th-century castle. Explore this spectacular historical site and view exhibits of ancient religious artifacts.
For many years, the Rock of Cashel was the seat of the High Kings of Munster. Munster is a province in southern Ireland. But in 1101, the ruling monarch gave it to the church. Soon after, the round tower, the site's oldest surviving structure, was built.
Enter the complex through the 15th-century Hall of the Vicars Choral. Venture into the crypt below the hall to visit a museum filled with artifacts. Among them are 16th-century chalices, the original 12th-century St. Patrick's Cross and replicas of ancient ecclesiastical treasures discovered at the site.
Step into the 13th-century cathedral, which has no aisles and no roof. View medieval tombs, grave slabs and the wall tomb of a 16th-century archbishop. Go into the cathedral's graveyard where there are numerous high crosses. Next to the cathedral is the 12th-century round tower, which rises to a height of 90 feet (27.5 meters) and is hollow inside.
Inside the Chapel of King Cormac, study the Romanesque wall paintings, the oldest of which dates back to the first half of the 12th century. View 12th-century depictions of the birth of Jesus Christ. Walk over to the chapel's west end for the carved sarcophagus, which is thought to have once contained the body of King Cormac or his brother.
The Rock of Cashel is open daily, except for a few days around Christmas, but opening times vary according to the seasons. Admission charges apply with discounts for senior citizens, children and students. Guided tours take place every hour, on the half hour. Find the historical attraction a short walk from the center of Cashel Town. There’s a parking lot at the bottom of the hill where you can leave your car for a fee.
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