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Loughrea |
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Including
Bullaun,
Kilchreest,
Tynagh
Loughrea - "The town of the grey lake" sits
pleasantly on the shores of the largest limestone lake,
after
Lough Corrib, in County Galway. The clear waters
provide some of the best trout angling available to both
native and visitor alike. There is a public park and the
small islands here are the remains of crannógs. The greatest
jewel in Loughrea is the Cathedral, where one can see Irish
craftsmanship and art at its highest level - it is a
treasure house of arts and crafts of celtic revival.
Architecturally notable are the stained-glass windows by An
Tur Gloaine and the banners to designs by J. B. Yeats.
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Turoe Stone |
Loughrea Cathedral |
The Turoe Stone
The Turoe Stone, located near Loughrea, is one of the
most instantly recognisable examples of ancient art in Ireland. It is the best
example, from a select few surviving examples, of a Celtic art style called La Tène. In fact, it has been hailed as one of the finest examples of La Tène art
in Europe, and in its Irish context, the art is assignable to the Iron Age, and
specifically the last three centuries Before Christ. Standing 1.68 metres high,
the Turoe Stone is highly decorated, with spirals, circles, curves, and other
motifs. The patterns are in relief because the stone was skilfully picked back
from the surface.
Loughrea Cathedral
St. Brendan's Catholic Cathedral in Loughrea is arguably one of the country's
greatest contributions to European art of the twentieth century. It is an
absolute must for anyone interested in modern Irish stained glass. The building
was designed by William Byrne in 1897, and completed five years later. Its only
unusual architectural features are its double transepts. But it is the
decoration of the church interior that makes a visit such an enriching and
spiritual experience.
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Cloghan Castle |
Loughrea Lake |
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Loughrea Lake
Baile Locha Riach: the town of the grey or dappled lake - takes its name from
the beautiful lake, on the northern shore of which the town stands. Lough Rea, a
large limestone lake, covering an area of c.260 hectares, was most likely formed
by erosion during the last Ice Age which ended about 9,000 BC. In addition to
providing the town's water supply, this attractive waterscape is Loughrea's most
valued amenity. It is also of value in terms of its ornithology and archaeology.
Cloghan Castle
Cloghan Castle has stood on these lands for over 800 years. Originally built as
an out-post fortification in the 12th century, the castle was last inhabited by
Hugh deBurgo in the 15th century, one of the most ancient and influential
families in Irish history, a son of Walter de Burgo, Earl of Ulster.
For centuries the castle stood derelict, until a meticulous and historically
accurate restoration programme was completed in the December of 1996. Cloghan
Castle is now a unique self-catering destination providing an oasis of
tranquillity and privacy. The castle boasts an unusual blend of old Norman
personality and atmosphere, with the elegance and comforts expected by today's
discerning guests.
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