The Rock of Cashel
Is one of Ireland’s most spectacular and, deservedly, most visited tourist attractions. Set on an outcrop of limestone in the heart of Tipperary, (Carraig Phádraig), more formally St. Patrick’s Rock, it is also known as Cashel of the Kings, the Seat of the High Kings of Munster and dates back to the 4th or 5th century.
It is iconic in its historic significance, possesses the most impressive cluster of medieval buildings in Ireland. Among the monuments to be found there is a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral and a fifteenth-century Tower House.
Legend has it that St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel in 978 and made it his capital.
In 1101 the site was granted to the church and Cashel swiftly rose to prominence as one of the most significant centres of ecclesiastical power in the country. The surviving buildings are remarkable. Cormac’s Chapel, for example, contains the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland.
Rock of Cashel highlights
- Cormac’s Chapel
Visit the chapel of Cormac Mac Carthaigh, high kings of Munster. This is the finest and most complete Romanesque church in Ireland. Look for the only surviving Romanesque frescoes in Ireland and admire the chapel’s north door, which has an exquisitely carved tympanum depicting a small centaur hunting a lion.
- Hall of the Vicars Choral
Don’t miss this beautiful and well-preserved medieval building, which belonged to a group of laymen engaged to chant the services in the chapel. Such is the intensity of the atmosphere here; it is not difficult to imagine the vicars’ holy song echoing around the walls.
There are more profane elements to be discovered too. Search for the well-hidden Sheela-na-gig on the outer wall.
- The Cathedral
The thirteenth-century Gothic cathedral at Cashel is a place of special spiritual potency. Admire the highly decorated wall painting in the south transept. Look upwards to appreciate the cathedral’s central tower and the massive residential castle.
- The Round Tower
The Round Tower is the oldest surviving building on site. It dates to the early 12th century and was probably completed in and around 1101, the same year the site was gifted to the church. It is 28m tall from base to the top of the conical stone-capped roof and was made from limestone and sandstone.
Cashel Town
Sample the culinary delights on offer in the many restaurants and cafés in the delightful heritage town of Cashel. Browse historical memorabilia at the Cashel Folk Village Museum, take in a show at Brú Ború or explore the town’s rich history at the Heritage Centre.
The View from the Rock
From the summit of the Rock, take in the all-around view over the surrounding plain. See if you can make out the two abbeys nearby. Nearby Hore Abbey, a hauntingly beautiful ruined Cistercian monastery, is well worth a visit if you have the time.
Rock of Cashel Top Tips
The Rock of Cashel gets very busy in the summer, arrive early to avoid the crowds. An absolute must see while visiting The Rock of Cashel is Hore Abbey, only a few minutes walk away. Spend some time in the lovely town, take in the the museums at Cashel Folk Village and The Brú Ború cultural centre.
Location
E25 KX44
Parking
Public car park close to site.
Distance
Only 35-40 minutes from Corderry Farm
Time to go discover
This spectacular attraction definitely needs to be on your list of things to do. Allow time to explore the town also. Remember, get in touch if you have any questions and we will be happy to help.
Castle Guide
Don’t forget to download your free Castle Guide below to discover many more amazing castles.
