Ireland - Curated Videos and Weblinks Guide
Ireland Highlight Links:
Kilmainham Gaol Museum: Online Tour - Take a tour in a museum that used to be a prison for Irish revolutionaries. The top floor holds sculptures, paintings, and jewelry from prisoners all over Ireland as a reminder of Irish Nationalism. Cells that once were filled with prisoners are now filled with history.
Trinity College Library: Medieval Manuscripts - Irish is the oldest vernacular literature in Western Europe and this collection is deemed one of the most important in the world. Some of the earlier manuscripts are written in the Irish language of Gaeilge and date back to the 9th century!
Cliffs of Moher: History - These cliffs once housed an observation tower and are considered one of Ireland's most famous sights. Being almost completely vertical, the abrupt edge creates a perfect spot for waves to crash against the sandstone. You may have an opportunity to visit them and take in the gorgeous views on a possible excursion.
Videos:
Ireland's Traditional Music Scene - Ireland may have borrowed instruments, but the songs are 100% original. Music is a large part of the Irish culture and you can hear the relevant tunes anywhere. These lively beats are captivating and inspiring.
Dublin: City of Words - Dublin is experiencing it's second coming of literature. But instead of words being written, the words are all around you. Walking through Dublin, literature comes to life through statues, cafes, music, and a vibrant energy through the streets. What stories will you "read" while in Dublin?
Articles:
Bog Butter: What is it? - If you've ever dug in your backyard, you probably found rocks. In Ireland, many people find butter--specifically bog butter. Some of these butter bogs are 75+ pounds and can date as far back as 5,000 years! What is it? Why is it there? Should you be digging for more information, this article answers your questions.
Kiss the Blarney Stone - In fairy tales, a princess kisses a frog and it turns into a prince. In Ireland, people kiss the Blarney Stone and receive the gift of eloquence. While no one questions the stone's powers, there is still much debate about how it came to be. Which story do you believe?