April 28 through May 4, 2007

Ireland has been invaded, occupied, and generally fought over for centuries, resulting in fortified dwellings everywhere. Castles, martellos, forts, abbeys, and country estates of the rulers share similar features, reflecting the need to build with defense in mind. But scholarship, art, and whimsy make their contribution, too.

Trinity College, Dublin	Weathervane at our Dublin B&B	Kilkeny Castle
Rock of Cashel (MP)	Rock of Cashel, an inner courtyard	River by Caher Castle
Wall near martello, Garnish Island	Bunratty Castle	Kylemore Abbey (MP)
"Historic marker" at Recess: "On this site in 1847, nothing happened."