Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Rising high above the fertile Plain of Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel—worth
▲▲▲
—is
one of Ireland's most historic and evocative sights. Seat of the ancient kings of Munster
(c.
A.D.
300-1100), this is where St. Patrick baptized King Aengus in about
A.D.
450. Stra-
tegically located and perfect for fortification, the Rock was fought over by local clans for
hundreds of years. Finally, in 1101, clever Murtagh O'Brien gave the Rock to the Church.
His seemingly benevolent donation increased his influence with the Church, while pre-
venting hisrivals, the powerful McCarthy clan, fromregaining possession ofthe Rock. As
Cashel evolved into an ecclesiastical center, Iron Age ring forts and thatch dwellings gave
way to the majestic stone church buildings enjoyed by visitors today. Queen Elizabeth II's
history-making, four-day visit to Ireland in 2011 included a visit to the Rock.
