Tag Archives: architecture

The Mist and the Mystery

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One of my favorite days spent in Ireland was this day.  County Kerry, forgotten pathway leading into the woods, abandoned stone house with a large and friendly tree growing inside.  We felt that we were the only people who had ever discovered this place, that it was our secret house in our hidden forest.  The mist only added to the mystery and magic of the day.  Memories linger like mist that surrounded us.  Have fun discovering the  beautiful mysteries that are all around you today.  Slainte, Lisapic36

The Well-Worn Stairs

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This castle hallway in Ireland has been well-used and well-loved over the years.  Now, the castle lies in ruins, yet the memories of what was remain for any visitor who is blessed with an imagination.  Our old house here in the States has some well-worn stairs as well, but I dare say with a bit more foot space left on them.  One of my favorite things to think of is the many feet attached to the many different characters who have run, plodded, skipped and sat upon our stairs over the years.  Stories…memories….life.  Blessings, Lisa

The Long & Skinny of It

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I am curious about all the long and skinny windows all over Ireland’s ancient ruins.  At first I thought, the forts would have these thin windows in order to shoot their arrows at the invaders without getting shot back in return.    But I have found them on old churches and abandoned cottages in the woods as well.  Time spent researching this on the internet has proven inconclusive, so the mystery remains momentarily as I keep searching.  The smaller windows might have been easier to construct, and also keep the cold wind and rain out better.  Anyone who has information about this mystery, please enlighten me.  🙂  Meanwhile, here are some pictures…the long and skinny of it.    Slainte, Lisa

Window of an abandoned small cottage in the woods outside Killarney

A window of an ancient church ruin in County Kerry.

This definitely appears to be an arrow slit window in Bunratty Castle.

Cahir Castle

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One of our favorite castles in Ireland (because how can you pick just one?!) is Cahir Castle, located in County Tipperary.  Dating back to the 13th-15th centuries, and designed by Conor O’Brien, it is an impressive, imposing, yet beautiful defensive castle.  This is the kind of castle that inspires 7-year-old boys to proclaim, “I could live here FOREVER!”  and propel return visits because you may have missed something the first go-around.  Have a wonderful day, Lisa