River Shannon | river, Ireland | Britannica.com River Shannon Killaloe River Shannon, the longest river in Ireland , rising in northwestern County Cavan and flowing for about 161 miles (259 km) in a southerly direction to enter the Atlantic Ocean via a 70-mile (113-kilometre) estuary below Limerick city. It drains an area of 6,060 square miles (15,695 square km). As the main river draining the central lowland of Ireland, it is surrounded by marshes and bogs for much of its course and widens at various points into lakes, many with islands. The River Shannon at Limerick, County Limerick, Munster, Ireland. Tourism Ireland The source of the Shannon is generally considered to be the pools at the foot of Tiltinbane Mountain. After a few miles it enters Lough Allen and then flows south through a wide belt of marshes and water meadows. It is crossed by a bridge at Leitrim and at Carrick-on-Shannon, above which it is joined by the Boyle from the west.

From north of Carrick south to Roosky, it flows through a landscape dominated by hills of glacial drift (drumlins) interspersed with bogs and marshes. Near Termonbarry, at Richmond Harbour, the river is joined by the Royal Canal; and at Lanesborough it enters Lough Ree . The bridge at Athlone is 15 mi from the next at Shannonbridge, where the Suck, the largest tributary, joins the main river. At Shannon Harbour the river is joined by the Grand Canal . About 15 mi south it reaches Lough Derg at Portumna, and its waters feed the Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station, using the fall of 109 ft (33 m) from lake to sea level. A fish ladder at the outlet of Lough Derg allows salmon to pass upriver to spawn. From Limerick the river enters its long estuary, in which shipping has dwindled since the 19th century and in which some of the large reclaimed areas have been used for Shannon International Airport, located near the estuary of the River Fergus in County Clare .

Similar Topics River Shannon - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up) The longest river in Ireland is the River Shannon. It flows in a generally southerly direction for about 161 miles (259 kilometers) through the center of the country before joining the Atlantic Ocean. It is neither a fast-flowing nor a deep river. It drains an area of 6,060 square miles (15,695 square kilometers). As the main river draining the central lowland of Ireland, the Shannon is surrounded by marshes and bogs for much of its course. The river widens at various points into lakes, many with islands. During periods of heavy rain, the river is likely to flood; severe flooding occurred in 2009.

Article History Limerick city | Ireland.com Limerick Limerick City Limerick city The polar opposite of the memoirs relayed in Frank McCourt’s Angela’s Ashes, Limerick is a lively city bubbling with beautiful Georgian architecture, grand museums and rugby-obsessed locals The Hunt Museum, Limerick City Set to music by Denis Allen (& later performed by Daniel O'Donnell) in his ballad Limerick, You’re a Lady, the waters of the River Shannon are the beauty that surrounds you during any outing here. But where should you go to first? There are few better places to start than the beautifully restored Milk Market on Cornmarket Row. It’s like a microcosm of the city: colourful, fun, energetic, with occasional pop-up restaurant events, artisan foods, antiques, music and art. Milk Market, Limerick City The lady Limerick “It has to be said that this is Limerick at its best,” writes Jack on TripAdvisor, “it is a hive of activity, fun and the essence of true living.

Everywhere you look there are artisan producers and growers, all mixed in with the friendly street traders.” Founded by the Vikings in the 9th century, today’s Limerick glows with a more Georgian feel, particularly around the Newtown Perry area. But this is a city that thrives on its individuality. Wander down the line alley of Fox’s Bow, and you’ll find a curiously quirky collection of craft, leather and jewellery stores, where you can pick up everything from Celtic silver to a blackthorn shillelagh (a traditional walking stick). Far better souvenirs than that leprechaun key-ring you had your eye on. Honest. Think a friend might enjoy this article? Click to save and share Behind these castle walls In the medieval heart of the city on King’s Island, step inside the 800-year-old St John’s Castle, once the site of the dramatic Siege of Limerick in 1690. St John’s remains one of the most intact medieval castles in Ireland, and boasts incredible views out over the River Shannon.

City of culture 2014 Designated as Ireland’s first City of Culture for 2014, Limerick’s rich cultural life can be seen in world-renowned museums, such as the Hunt, as well as the Limerick City Gallery of Art, housed in the historic Carnegie Building. Good sports If culture is the city’s lifeblood, then sport is its beating heart. Strike up a conversation with a garrulous rugby supporter in a convivial pub and they’ll delight in telling you about memorable Munster victories. A particular win against New Zealand’s All Blacks has made its way into local and national sporting folklore. In 2011, Limerick was crowned European City of Sport, a deserved accolade for a place that promotes sporting excellence. But for those who prefer to listen to music in pubs rather than sports talk, the place to head is Dolan’s on Dock Road, which features live music most nights as well as cutting-edge stand-up comedians. Peace, quiet and a slice of luxury are on the menu, too. Step inside No1 Pery Square and you’ll know what we mean.

You’d hardly believe it, but within the walls of this 200-year old Georgian townhouse are period guestrooms, a wine shop, a spa, a fine-dining restaurant and a drawing room where afternoon tea is served around a blazing turf fire. But hey, what else would you expect from a lady like Limerick? Save this page to a Scrapbook: Limerick | County Limerick Ireland Limerick Limerick County Limerick is mostly a land of quaint rural charm and tradition, by contrast the city of Limerick, a vibrant and bustling city of important cultural significance. Apart from the rolling green mountains bordering Co. Tipperary , most of the Limerick countryside is low-lying farmland set besides the banks of the River Shannon. Set within this rural landscape is the picturesque village of Adare one of Ireland's prettiest villages with a selection of thatched cottages set beside the River Maigue. A few kilometres away is one of Ireland's most important archaeological sites at Lough Gur with remains of a settlement from 5000 years ago.

Contrasting with the sleepy country villages, Limerick City is a busy and well-developed city, straddling the banks of the River Shannon. The city has an interesting history, founded by the Vikings, but taken over by the Irish, Limerick was developed and fortified by the Anglo-Normans during the middle ages. King John's Castle overlooking the river still stands as a reminder of this era. Limerick is remembered by many as the setting for Frank McCourt's book Angela's Ashes, though the city has been much modernised from the desperate times described in McCourt's time and today Limerick is a vibrant multi-cultural city. The River Shannon plays an important role for Limerick, a few kilometres from the city along the estuary is the main port of Foynes, which for many years served as the main transatlantic seaplane base in Ireland. Limerick is highly regarded in the sports of Hurling and Rugby; indeed it is regarded by many as the home of Munster Rugby . As well as Frank McCourt, Limerick's famous sons and daughters include the late actor Richard Harris, UK broadcaster Terry Wogan as well as Rose Fitzgerald, mother of J F Kennedy.

Resources Limerick | Ireland | Britannica.com Limerick Ireland Limerick, Irish Luimneach (“Bare Land”), city , port, and county town (seat) of County Limerick , west-central Ireland . It occupies both banks and King’s Island of the River Shannon at the head of its estuary emptying into the Atlantic Ocean . Under the Local Government Act of 1888, Limerick became a county borough with a city council; it has remained administratively independent of the county. Thomond Bridge over the River Shannon and King John’s Castle at Limerick, Ireland G.F. Allen—Bruce Coleman The city is divided into English Town (on King’s Island), Irish Town, and Newtown Pery (founded 1769), the first including the ancient nucleus of the city and the last including the principal modern streets. The main stream of the Shannon is crossed by Thomond and Sarsfield (or Wellesley) bridges. Communication with the sea is open, while inland navigation is facilitated by a canal. Quays extend on each side of the river, along which lie a graving (dry) dock and a wet dock.

The River Shannon at Limerick, County Limerick, Munster, Ireland. Tourism Ireland The Norse sacked an early settlement in the early 9th century. In 922 they established it as a principal town of their kingdom of Limerick, using the settlement to attack monasteries; they were expelled at the end of the 10th century by the Irish hero Brian Boru . From 1106 to 1174 it was the seat of the kings of Thomond, or North Munster . Richard I granted it a charter in 1197. King John (reigned 1199–1216) granted it to William de Burgh, who founded English Town and erected King John’s Castle. In the 15th century its fortifications were extended to include Irish Town, and it became one of the strongest fortresses of the kingdom. In 1609 Limerick received a charter that made the city a county and also incorporated a society of merchants. After William III ’s unsuccessful siege in 1691, resistance was ended by the Treaty of Limerick.

Perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Limerick is the limestone Treaty Stone, on which was signed the Treaty of Limerick (1691) between the supporters and opponents of William III. (Much of the stone is now spread throughout the world, particularly in Canada and the United States.) Fragments of the old walls remain. King John’s Castle, Limerick, County Limerick, Munster, Ireland. Tourism Ireland Limerick City - Tour Limerick | Tour Limerick Limerick City Posted by on Jan 4, 2010 in Places to visit 1 comment About Limerick is the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland, and the principal city in County Limerick. Limerick is the second-largest city in the province of Munster, an area which constitutes the midwest and southwest of Ireland. Limerick is situated on several curves and islands of the River Shannon, which spreads into an estuary shortly after Limerick.

Road infrastructure features three main crossing points near the city centre (an additional river tunnel to the west of the three bridges is expected to open in 2010), and in 2006 the Limerick urban area had a population of 91,000 Limerick is one of the constituent cities of the Cork-Limerick-Galway corridor, which has a population of 1 million. As with most other large cities in the country, Limerick has attracted a noticeable immigrant community over the past decade. The Polish community is the second largest outside of Dublin, with an estimated 10,000 living and working in the city. Ireland’s first Polish bank opened in 2007. The African community has set up a number of churches, which are now part of the cultural makeup of the city. Limerick is at the centre of the Midwest region, which contributed €8.224 billion in 2002 to Irish GDP. It is 195 km west of Dublin and is 105 km from both Cork to the south and Galway to the north.

Limerick City is one of the country’s main tourist destinations, only a 15-minute drive from Shannon Airport. Currently tourism is growing at a spectacular rate with over 1,000 new beds being opened in the city in 2006 thanks to the opening of five new hotels. The city is the first to provide visitors with ‘Street Ambassadors’, people designated to help others around and make their stay more enjoyable. Tourist attractions in the city centre include King John’s Castle (1212), St Mary’s Cathedral (1168), Hunt Museum, several seasonal tours (Angela’s Ashes walking tour of Limerick City, historical walking tour and boat tours along the River Shannon), the University of Limerick, Georgian house and gardens and the Treaty Stone. Adare village and the Foynes Flying Boat Museum on the outskirts of the city are also popular attractions. The Jim Kemmy Municipal Museum, also known as Limerick Museum, is next to King John’s Castle. It contains displays on Limerick’s history and manufactures. (Wikipedia) Unuasual view of The Castle & The Strand with Sarsfield Bridge in foreground & Clare Hills (I think) in background.

One of the few sights, that have not changed ! Brings back many fond memories of my Limerick. Leave a Reply Limerick travel guide - Wikitravel Riverside City[ edit ] Limerick is a riverside city of modest size, and is Ireland's third most populated city. Limerick is situated in the heart of Ireland's beautiful Shannon Region . The city overlooks the majestic and historic King John's Castle which is perched on its Shannon river bank. A city of many contrasts, it has managed to successfully blend the modern with the historic. It offers many cultural attractions, including cinema, theatre, museums, concerts, walking tours, boat rides and a wide variety of sports amenities. There is the lively atmosphere in traditional pubs, discos and restaurants. Being centrally located between the major attractions of Cork and Galway it is not as popular with tourists in the region. History[ edit ] A Viking town[ edit ] The city was founded by the Vikings in 922 AD. The Vikings thrived in the village but they were overthrown in 968 AD. The Vikings fought the city back again in 969 AD.

It wasn't until the 1020 AD, that native Limerick folk again recaptured and claimed their town. From that time period, the Vikings became part of the fabric of the town and integrated into the Irish society. Limerick of today benefits from their artistry, technological skills and seamanship. Through the Middle Ages[ edit ] The English (Anglo-Normans) colonised the city in 1172 AD and changed everything. St Mary's Cathedral was built in 1194 AD. Limerick's architecture boomed, King John ordered the construction of his fortress King John's Castle in 1205 AD, a fine specimen of fortified Norman architecture and Thomond Bridge which was for centuries the only bridge crossing the River Shannon. The Treaty Stone perched on Thomond Bridge The English settled in King's Island, called "Englishtown". The Irish were moved to "Irishtown", located on the other side of the Abbey River. A huge stonewall was erected around "Englishtown" in this period, known as "the walls of Limerick" and now is a famous traditional Irish dance.

Limerick developed and became a very prosperous port and trading center exporting and importing all around Europe. 1171 AD a nunnery was founded. The Trinitarian Abbey was built in 1230 AD, this was the Trinitarian order's only established monastery in Ireland. The Scottish clans in 1315 AD attempted to invade Limerick and around 1320 AD Edward Bruce took Limerick once again. This occupation was defeated by the English in 1318 AD. A few hundred years later another historic moment occurred in Limerick, The Treaty of Limerick was signed to end the Irish war between the Jacobites and the supporters of William of Orange and it also ended the Siege of Limerick. They were signed on the Treaty Stone, which is perched now on a pedestal at the foot of Thomond Bridge. Modern Times[ edit ] Limerick of the early 20th century was very much a growing agricultural town. The Peoples Park was developed in 1876 and later tourism became a major focus and technology industries flourished.

A state library and museum was built in 1906 with the Limerick Art Gallery being constructed in 1948. In 1972 the University of Limerick opened. In 1976, The Hunt family offered their collection to the nation to what has become the Hunt Museum. In 1981, the Beltable Arts Centre opened its curtains for everyone. In 1984 Limerick's National Technology Park opened its doors. During the late 20th century and early 21st century a great investment went into refurbishing and restoring Limerick's historic buildings. The 'renaissance' continued in in 1989, Arthur Quay was refurbished and a new walkway waterfront constructed. In 1987 O'Halloran Bridge was built and in 1989 Arthurs Quay Shopping Centre opened to the public for the first time. The Living Bridge at UL During the 80's, the Potato Market, and the Milk Market were refurbished, the Milk Market will have another upgrade in 2010. The old Bishops Palace,was totally rebuilt to its former glory.

In 1991, a new tourist information office was commissioned and tied in nicely with a new visitors centre to showcase King John's Castle. 1994 saw Kings Island refurbished. Steamboat Quay was refurbished and a new hotel and apartments were built in the region. In 1999, the new Abbey Bridge opened to the public. 1999 saw the opening of the Georgian House in Pery Square region of the city. The stunning Living Bridge was contructed in 2007 by the Eiffel Engineering of Paris, (the team behind the the Eiffel Tower, Statue of Liberty), it's an iconic 350m long footbridge over the River Shannon at the University of Limerick. Presently, it is planned to refurbish and renew the Park Canal and upgrade all amenities on the Shannon river. A €350m 40-unit shopping mecca, the Opera centre, named in honour of Limerick's famous 18th century soprano singer Catherine Hayes is scheduled for completion in 2012. Literature[ edit ] Limerick has spawned many great writers and poets.

Among those were Michael Hogan, the Bard of Thomond to Jim Kemmy and Maureen Sparling to the late and great writer Frank McCourt whose pulitzer prize winning Angela's Ashes, 'Tis and Teacher man were huge international bestsellers. Music and Film[ edit ] Limerick has a very active music scene, which has produced such popular bands/musicians from as Dolores O'Riordan, The Cranberries and Noel Hogans' MonoBand, The Hitchers, world-renowned electronic musician Richard D. James, known as Aphex Twin. It is also home to comedians D'Unbelievables (Pat Shortt & Jon Kenny) which entertained with many TV shows and Christmas specials, other famous personalities include the Hollywood actor Richard Harris and TV presenter Terry Wogan. A number of films and movies have been produced and recorded in the city including the Alan Parker's Hollywood adaptation of Angela's Ashes starring Robert Carlyle and Emily Watson. It is the setting for the contemporary coming-of-age drama Cowboys & Angels and Robert Cunningham's gritty Somebody's Daughter.

Thomond Park, Limerick and River Shannon By plane[ edit ] Shannon Airport [2] serves Limerick and is located just 25km along the N18. Shannon Airport is an International Airport that services locations both within Europe and to the United States. Daily flights from Shannon Airport to New York, Newark and Chicago are operated by Delta, Aer Lingus and United Airlines while Ryanair mainly services destinations in the UK and Europe. By bus[ edit ] Limerick City is served very well by Bus Eireann [3] who operate services to and from Limerick city to Athlone, Balbriggan, Cork , Drogheda , Dublin , Dundalk, Galway , Navan , Kilarney Sligo and Waterford . From Galway and Cork is served by Citylink's bus service [4] . Dedicated public coach hire services to Concerts, Festivals and Sporting Events [5] . By train[ edit ] Limerick is connected to the Irish Rail [6] network by Colbert Station which is on Parnell Street in Limerick City.

Limerick City is connected by rail (either directly or indirectly) with the main cities/towns of Waterford , Belfast , Dublin , Galway , Cork , Tralee and Ennis . Car rental[ edit ] It makes sense to pick up a rental car at Shannon Airport if you are arriving by plane as it's much more convenient. If you require to collect in the city, call up your preferred car rental dealer and they will arrange your rental pick up. All the major car rental companies in Ireland have locations at Shannon. Shannon Airport is easily accessible from Limerick by Bus or Taxi services. Birds eye view of The Living Bridge, UL, Limerick City Get around[ edit ] Public Bus services are available in Limerick but the city is quite contained and everything is within walking distance. Quite easy to get from City Centre out to UL / Castletroy Area and back via the public bus. See[ edit ][ add listing ] Limerick has a host of attractions.

See the Limerick Coordination Office [7] for a full events guide King John's Castle, located on King's Island (in the heart of Limerick City), [8] Open: 10-16.30 Jan/Feb/Nov/Dec, 9.30-17.00 Mar/Apr, 9.30-17.30 May–Oct. Thomond Park, one of the Ireland's most famous sporting arenas, and the proud home of Munster Rugby, who are twice crowned European champions and have beaten the world's best in this stadium including the mighty All Blacks. Recently renovated to international standards, re-opened in November 2008. It has a new modern music bar and great facilities for young and old. You must experience a rugby game, even if you like sport or not, when you visit to witness its often talked about unique atmosphere. [9] St. John's Cathedral This impressive church has the tallest spire in Ireland at an amazing 94m (308 ft) and is a must visit. Built in 1861 and designed by the architect Philip Charles Hardwick, it has been in continuous use since.

The most recent restoration work carried out was in 2003/2004 on the roof and exterior stonework. It is a Catholic cathedral, the city's other cathedral, St. Mary's Cathedral being Anglican. [10] The Peoples Park, Limerick The Hunt Museum, Rutland Street, phone: +353 61 312 833 (email: [11] , fax +353 61 312834) [12] Open 10-17:00 Mon-Sat, 14:00–17:00 Sun. (Adults €7.20, Concessions €5.80, Children €3.50) St Mary's Cathedral located on King's Island, phone: +353 61 416 238, [13] Downtown Georgian Architecture UL Arena for sports, walking by the lakes and crossing The Living Bridge.

Limerick Milk Market is a hive of activity at the weekend, everything under the sun is for sale, bargains galore, art, books, clothes, antiques, fresh food and even farmers milk! [14] Peoples Park very central in Limerick, if you like romantic walks. Daniel O'Connell monument. It's perched at the top of O'Connell street in the Georgian district. The Treaty Stone on Thomond bridge. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] St John's Cathedral: The tallest spire in Ireland The Hunt Museum offers a unique collection of treasures. Located in the historic Custom House and overlooking the Shannon, it features a diverse range of artefacts, from archeological finds to 20th century art exhibitions. Limerick City Gallery of Art Munster Rugby [15] — Rugby union side that compete in the Magners League alongside teams from Ireland, Scotland and Wales (and also Italy from 2010–11), and the Europe-wide Heineken Cup. Munster's main home is Thomond Park, recently expanded and renovated into an impressive modern facility.

Munster supporters are among the most fanatical and yet respectful in all of sport—one long-standing tradition is absolute silence when a player, even an opponent, is kicking for goal. St. John's Cathedral For the tallest spire in Ireland. St. Mary's Cathedral Budget[ edit ] Brookville House B&B, 31 Brookville Avenue, Clareview, Limerick, Ireland (5 mins walk to Thomond Park), ☎ (+353) 061 452160 ( nhorkan@eircom.net ), [47] . Owner, Nora, is renowned for her hospitality and the full Irish breakfast comes highly recommended. Ensuite rooms with TV available. From €35. edit Jurys Inn Limerick (Limerick Hotel), Lower Mallow Street, Limerick, Ireland, ☎ (+353 61) 207000, [48] . From €59.

edit Travelodge Limerick Castletroy (neighbouring the University of Limerick), Dublin Rd N7, ☎ 061 603 500 ( limerickcastletroy@travelodge.ie , fax: 061 603 222), [49] . checkin: 3PM; checkout: noon. from €35. edit Travelodge Limerick Ennis Road, Travelodge Hotel Limerick Ennis Road, Coonagh Roundabout, Ennis Rd (close to Thomond Park Stadium Limerick), ☎ 061 457 000 ( limerick@travelodge.ie , fax: 061 454 991), [50] . checkin: 3PM; checkout: noon. from €35. edit Mid-range[ edit ] Annville B&B, Newtown, Castletroy (South-west of university.), ☎ +353 61 330023 ( annville@hotmail.com , fax: +353 61 330023), [51] .

Quiet and nice B&B in the outskirts, friendly and helpful landlord, complete irish breakfast. Unlike advertised, not all rooms are ensuite, and the common bathroom is aging but otherwise the facilities are quite fine. €40 single/€60 double. (52.66637,-8.53969) edit Best Western Perys Hotel, Glentworth Street, ☎ +353 (0/61) 413822 ( info@perys.ie , fax: +353 (0/61) 413073), [52] . edit Splurge[ edit ] Absolute Hotel Limerick, Sir Harry's Mall, Limerick, Ireland, ☎ +353 61 463-600, [66] . Four Star hotel luxury spa hotel in the heart of Limerick City Centre. edit The Savoy Hotel 5*, Henry Street, ☎ +353 61 456200 (fax: +353 (0/61) 448701), [67] .

checkin: 3PM; checkout: Noon. € 140+ per night. edit The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Limerick, Ennis Rd, ☎ +353 (0/61) 448700 ( sales.limerick@radissonblu.com , fax: +353 61 327418), [68] . checkin: 3. The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Limerick is located near to Shannon Airport and city centre. edit Stay safe[ edit ] In contrast to its out-dated reputation for drug gang violence, Limerick is a very safe city nowadays and remarkable improvements in safety have been made in recent years. Being a modest sized city, Limerick's main city centre is safe and cosy, even at nights and weekends. Since it is the home of many universities; weekends and weekdays - pubs usually fill up with students of all sorts from all over the world, some getting way too drunk. Generally as is the case of any of the modern cities in Ireland, use your common sense, stick to main streets and exercise caution and you will have a fantastic time.

If you do run into trouble, the police station (Gardai) is on Henry Street in the city centre. The number of the local police (Gardai) is +353 61 212 400, note: a non-emergency number. The emergency dial is the standard 112 or 999, as always. Hotels in Limerick - IrelandHotels.com Limerick Hotels Limerick Hotels County Limerick is located on the West coast of Ireland and borders counties Cork , Tipperary , Clare and Kerry . The county is rich in archaeological and historical attractions, as well as having a number of pretty towns, forests, rivers, valleys and the Ballyhoura Mountains that are worth visiting. Limerick City sits on the River Shannon Estuary and is the fifth largest city in Ireland. Limerick is a modern and vibrant city with all the hustle and bustle that goes with being a University town, including a great selection of Limerick hotels and Limerick guesthouses. The University of Limerick is based on the banks of the River Shannon.

However, the city also has a rich historical past with the medieval heart of the city centred on King John’s Castle . The castle was built in the early part of the 13th century and is an impressive example of an Anglo-Norman fort; you can view more of the medieval part of the city on the Limerick Medieval Heritage Precinct trail. Limerick Attractions The city also has a number of excellent visitor attractions such as the Hunt Museum , the Limerick Museum , St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Limerick City Art Gallery . The Hunt Museum has a wide collection of antiquities from Ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt to pre-Christian Ireland; it also has a collection of works from Picasso, Jack B. Yates, Renoir and Henry Moore. Or why not walk in the footsteps of Frank McCourt the famous Irish author with the Angela’s Ashes Walking Tour, based on his well-known autobiography. Limerick City is also well known for its strong sporting tradition with the famous Thomond Park – home to Munster Rugby and it was on these grounds that Munster has their historic win over the All Blacks in 1978. You can book short stay Limerick Hotel Breaks and take in the atmosphere.

Other attractions in County Limerick includes Lough Gur Visitor Centre in Bruff , which tells the story of pre-Celtic Ireland dating back to 3000 B.C. Desmond Hall in Newcastlewest is a fine example of a 15th century banqueting hall which was built for the Earls of Desmond. Also worth a visit if the Foynes Flying Boat Museum which looks back to the 1930’s and 1940’s when Foynes was at the heart of trans-Atlantic aviation in Ireland. Limerick Activities Limerick is a popular spot for anglers. With fishing available on the many rivers and lakes in the county for both trout and salmon/ Popular spots include Castleconnell Salmon Fishery, River Deel and Lakes, River Maigue and River Mulcair and of course the River Shannon. There are plenty of facilities and attractive for walking in Limerick, such as the Ballyhoura Way, Curraghchase Forest Park and Doneraile Court and Wildlife Park. Each year the Ballyhoura International Walking Festival takes place in Kilfinane.

Or enjoy a day out at the races, with horse racing at Limerick Racecourse at Patrickswell throughout the year. Or for the golfing enthusiast there are some great golf courses in Limerick, including Dromoland Castle, Limerick County, Limerick Golf Club and the Adare Manor Golf Resort. The Ireland Hotels website features a number of Limerick hotels and Limerick guesthouses throughout the county. To book Hotel Breaks in Limerick use the accommodation search box on this page. Hotels in Limerick History Ireland Published in Features , Issue 1 (Spring 2003) , Medieval History (pre-1500) , Volume 11 James Henry Brocas’s Old Baal’s Bridge, Limerick, c. 1810. The medieval bridge linking Irishtown and Englishtown across the Abbey River was demolished and rebuilt in 1831. (National Gallery of Ireland) The development of the Limerick Main Drainage Scheme and Lower Shannon Navigation has necessitated large-scale archaeological investigations in the heart of Limerick city and in its rural hinterland from July 1999 to the present date.

The scale and location of the construction work required a planned and innovative approach to the excavations, including a detailed pre-development archaeological study of the city and environs. It was necessary to develop techniques of excavation in semi-dry sections of the riverbed and to coordinate the programming of the archaeological and construction operations. The excavations also involved specialist archaeobotanical studies where suitable deposits were identified in association with archaeological strata, such as at Broad Street in the centre of the city. The historic city Limerick has played a central role in the ebb and flow of Irish history since its establishment as a town by the Vikings on King’s Island over a thousand years ago. Its status as a major administrative centre in the medieval period is reflected in the construction of St Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle and the city walls, and has continued to the present day. It is not surprising, therefore, that before construction work began on the Limerick Main Drainage Scheme the potential for the discovery of new archaeological structures and artefacts was highlighted as an issue that had to be addressed as part of the design of the new environmental waste-water treatment system by Limerick City Council.

It was not possible to predict precisely what lay submerged below the waters of the Abbey River, nor what new sites would be identified around Limerick’s rural margins. As the considerable engineering work progressed, the river began to yield up its stories from the past. The discoveries that have been made as a result of the construction work reflect the civic history of the city, in terms of trade, commerce, wars and everyday life. The number and variety of the finds are a unique reflection of the city’s wide and varied history. The archaeological excavations were concentrated along the Abbey River to its confluence with the Shannon, and on George’s Quay and Charlotte’s Quay. Important new sites were discovered at Athlunkard to the north of the city. Limerick before the Vikings The early Irish genealogies tell of a place called Inis Sibtonn or Luimneach, an island in the Shannon. The recovery of worked flint from the riverbed points to settlement on the banks of the Shannon in the Neolithic period (5000–3000 BC).

‘The citie of Lymericke’, 1587, with the main Englishtown on King’s Island (centre) divided by the Abbey River from the Irishtown (right). Other artefacts found in the river include a spiral-headed pin (dating from c. AD 600–800) on the site of the ford at Baal’s Bridge, demonstrating the importance of this strategic location as a route before the arrival of the Vikings. New earthworks were identified on the banks of the River Shannon at Fairyhill, just north of Limerick city. The earthworks, which are just below the tidal limit of the river, are silted and eroded. However, a detailed topographic survey revealed ‘D’-shaped defensive banks and ditches enclosing a low mound. The site is adjacent to St Thomas’s Island at a ford leading to the city via Athlunkard Street—hence the local placename Athlunkard (‘ford of the ship fort’). The Vikings: from raiding to trading The Vikings began raiding along the Shannon in the ninth century.

The historical records suggest that a Dane named Yorus established a raiding fort at Limerick in 861. To date, the location of this early longphort has not been established. It may have been upstream of the city, adjacent to St Thomas’s Island, at Athlunkard; other scholars have suggested that it may have been on the site of St Mary’s Cathedral on King’s Island. Little is known about longphorts in Ireland, and the site at Fairyhill may be associated with the powerful O’Briens, centred at Kincora to the north. The Vikings established the first trading towns in Ireland. The Limerick Vikings established their town on King’s Island by the tenth century. The Vikings were craftsmen and traders, and it is this picture, as opposed to their traditional characterisation as plunderers, that emerged from the murky depths of the Abbey River. A silver penny minted for King Cnut, dating from AD 1035, is illustrative of trade and exchange between Limerick and London, where the coin was minted almost a thousand years ago by King Cnut’s moneyer, Edwine.

A Viking strap end and zoomorphic mount dating from the early eleventh century are demonstrable examples of the fine metalworking technology of the time. The Viking artefacts are the earliest dated objects found in the Abbey River on the Limerick Main Drainage Scheme. The new Anglo-Norman town and bridge When the Anglo-Normans launched their assault on Limerick in 1175, there was no bridge in the location later occupied by Baal’s Bridge. Giraldus Cambrensis, the Cambro-Norman chronicler, suggests that the attackers found a ford across the Abbey River, as an Anglo-Norman ‘hurled himself headlong into the swiftly flowing river’ and managed to cross to the opposite bank. The capture of the city by the Anglo-Normans heralded the expulsion of the Irish and Vikings and the establishment of the ‘Irishtown’, as it then became known, on the southern bank of the Abbey River. Excavations at Broad Street uncovered two medieval bridge piers under the junction of Broad Street and Charlotte’s Quay.

These structures formed part of the medieval bridge, built in the early thirteenth century (on the site of the present Baal’s Bridge), that formed the vital link between the Irishtown and the Englishtown on King’s Island. The excavations at Broad Street indicated a long and deep (4.5m) archaeological sequence below the street level, commencing in the early thirteenth century and continuing up to the present day. Three samples from oak timbers that revetted one of the bridge piers were dated to the early thirteenth century. Organic deposits were identified abutting the bridge piers, and subsequent scientific analysis demonstrated that they had accumulated slowly during the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries as a result of the dumping of organic refuse and the accumulation of river silts. The excavation cast light on the growth and development of Broad Street, with evidence for house floors dating from the fourteenth/early fifteenth century built on top of ground reclaimed from the riverbed. This expansion of the Irishtown towards the Abbey River is likely to have been associated with renewed town wall-building, extending into the river. The uppermost archaeological deposits in the cutting consisted of post-medieval cobbling, drains and culverts.

The town wall along George’s Quay Excavations along George’s Quay uncovered two principal sections of the town wall to a depth of 5m below the existing quay. The first section uncovered was at the junction of the medieval bridge, the town wall and a defensive tower defending the northern end of the bridge on the town wall. Henry VI silver groat Seal bearing the unique ‘Lymerick Port’ coat of arms The springing arch of the medieval bridge was identified at the easternmost external end of the town wall. A walkway or ‘sconce’ was identified, behind and inside the town wall, leading to an arched entrance into the tower. No surface trace of the structures was visible before excavation. The historical sources suggest that the medieval defences survived up to 1760, when the present quay was constructed; the medieval bridge was replaced in 1830. No medieval archaeological layers were recorded adjacent to the walls. The layers that abutted the structures were deposited as a result of eighteenth-century quay construction and nineteenth-century bridge-building.

An excavation carried out on George’s Quay at the bottom of Creagh Lane revealed a similar sequence of eighteenth-century reclamation over and around the old town wall. However, a corner section of a mural tower or bastion on the town wall was identified along the length of the cutting. The archaeological excavations in the riverbed resulted in the collection of a large range of medieval and post-medieval artefacts that illustrate the commercial and vernacular history of the city. The finds date from all periods of Limerick’s past and include beads, coins (largely Irish, but also Scottish, English and French, such as a Henry VI silver groat (1422–7) minted in Calais), horse equipment, pins, brooches, tools, pottery and clay pipes. An early post-medieval (c. 1600) seal bearing the unique ‘Lymerick Port’ coat of arms was also recovered from the riverbed, as was a wedding ring hallmarked by the Limerick goldsmith William Ward, inscribed with two sets of initials (‘TM’ and ‘NH’) and the date ‘Feb 12th 1798’.

The discovery of the ring in the riverbed raises questions as to how it was lost—accidentally, or in anger? Animal bone and antler A large quantity of food waste (cattle, sheep and pig bones) was recovered from the Abbey River. There was very little evidence that food was taken from the wild. It seems clear that sufficient meat was available from domesticated farm animals to supply the needs of the townspeople. However, occasional bones of red and fallow deer and small quantities of rabbit bone were found. The Anglo-Normans introduced fallow deer into Ireland for the sport of hunting. Goats were rarely eaten in Ireland, and the overwhelming evidence suggests that they were kept in Limerick to supply horn. Deer antler was also an important raw material in the production of combs, knife handles and other implements. A few adult dog and cat bones were found scattered in the riverbed. There were no complete skeletons, which is somewhat surprising, as the river would have been an ideal repository for dead animals. The siege of 1690 The legendary Siege of Limerick in 1690 followed William of Orange’s victory at the Boyne.

William encamped outside the city in the late summer of 1690 and began to bombard it with cannon and mortar fire from Garryowen. Williamite cannonballs. The bombardment concentrated on the city wall from St John’s Hospital to Baal’s Bridge, prior to the assault on the town walls and the infamously bloody ‘battle of the breach’. William particularly targeted Baal’s Bridge to destroy the link between the Irishtown and the Englishtown in order to prevent the Jacobites from reinforcing his point of attack from either side of the city. Williamite mortar fire rained down on the buildings throughout the city, causing much destruction and despair before his strike on the town walls. The 1690 siege is one of the few engagements in the war in which the Jacobites were victorious. The excavations recovered a large assemblage of artefacts dating from the siege, including the iron and stone cannon balls, lead musket and pistol balls and large mortar bombs that William unleashed on the city. Other artefacts recovered include a fragmentary musket, a highly decorated officer’s sword hilt, gunflint, grenades and Jacobite gun money.

In the eighteenth century a phase of canalisation of the Abbey River included the attempted construction of a lock gate at its junction with the Shannon. This was the first attempt by Georgian engineers to control the waters of the Abbey River with the installation of a navigation scheme. The foundations were laid but never finished and were rediscovered with the dewatering of this location. Today’s navigation scheme sees the successful completion of the engineering scheme first contemplated in the late eighteenth century. Conflict in the twentieth century Many of the citizens of Limerick fought and died in the First World War. The commemorative plaque found under Matthew Bridge dedicated to Thomas Gleeson bears witness to one such individual. A highly decorated officer sword hilt. Iron and stone cannon balls and large mortar bombs. Limerick was the scene of significant engagement between pro- and anti-Treaty forces during the Civil War in 1922. Although this is recent history in comparison to the arrival of the Vikings, the events of that year too have left their mark in the archaeological record of the Abbey River. Several Webley revolvers, bullets, hand grenades and shells were recovered.

It would appear that, as the anti-Treaty forces retreated, they threw their guns and ammunition in the river to avoid arrest and detention. Finding and minding Study of the artefacts found on the Limerick Main Drainage Scheme builds up a picture of life in the past—diet, personal ornament, trade, commerce and conflict. The aim of archaeological conservation is to reveal the true nature of an artefact and to preserve it intact for as long as possible. ‘A Prospect of Limerick bearing due West’ (1690). Williamite cannon and mortar fire from Garryowen in the foreground concentrated on the city wall from St John’s Hospital to Baal’s Bridge (centre). (Jim Kemmy Municipal Museum, Limerick) Artefacts found on archaeological excavations require treatment to preserve them and to investigate their original state. The standard method of recording artefacts is through description, photography and illustration. All of the artefacts found on the Limerick Main Drainage Scheme have been studied in this manner and have been dated by form, decorative detail and comparison with other artefacts. First World War comommemorative plaque found under Matthew Bridge dedicated to Thomas Gleeson.

(Simon Dick) The Abbey and Shannon rivers are dominant features of Limerick and are the focus for many of its most important buildings and cityscapes. These rivers have produced a substantial and remarkable collection that now totals more than 10,000 artefacts. The collection reflects the city in which they were discovered, in terms of both its long history of habitation and the events that shaped and marked the passing of time. The rivers have acted as a unique time-capsule, allowing us to visualise the city’s remarkable past. Edmond O’Donovan is an archaeologist with Margaret Gowen & Co. who directed the excavations conducted for the Limerick Main Drainage Scheme and Lower Shannon Navigation. Further reading: Hotels in Limerick, Ireland - Radisson Blu (SAS) Hotels & Resorts Hotels in Limerick HISTORICAL TREASURES IN VIBRANT LIMERICK Explore the bustling city of Limerick with its rich medieval past!

Set in 20 acres of landscaped gardens, the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa is just 3 km from Limerick city centre with its stunning location on the River Shannon, excellent shopping, majestic Georgian avenues and 800-year-old King John’s Castle. To round off the perfect trip, travel back in time at nearby Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. The story of Limerick Limerick is Ireland’s fourth largest city and has a scenic location on the River Shannon just as the estuary escapes into the Atlantic Ocean. In 2014 it became Ireland’s first National City of Culture drawing visitors from across the country to experience its many museums, fun festivals, exciting greyhound track, medieval architecture and contemporary shops, bars and restaurants. Limerick has emerged as a centre of technology and science – a sort of Silicon Valley for the Emerald Isle, and it has a vibrant young population boosting the economy and adding to the city’s cool vibe.

Much of the action in Limerick is focused around the river – Limerick City Museum is at Merchants Quay and Dock Road is a good place to catch some comedy at the Dolan’s Warehouse; this is the home of Jimmy Carr’s parents and he makes regular trips to the city. For great views of the city take a river boat tour or head to the top of the Riverpoint building on Steamboat Quay. Steamboat Quay is the place to hang out and have a drink or try one of the city’s many restaurants – from Chinese to Caribbean, African to Russian. Cultural Limerick If you like culture then Limerick has it in abundance. An absolute must is the Hunt Museum, housed in the old Custom House. It has a varied collection of around 2,000 original works of art including pieces by Picasso and Leonardo Da Vinci. For the heart of Limerick explore the medieval centre with the grand 800-year-old King John’s Castle and St Mary’s Cathedral.

The Georgian Quarter in the Newton Pery part of town is where you’ll see Limerick’s famous Georgian terrace and in this neighbourhood you’ll also find Limerick City Art Gallery on Pery Square, which has a wealth of Irish art. If you want to take a moment to sit down while you’re in this part of town, head to the green oasis of People’s Park. The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa is just outside of the city centre and the hotel’s 20 acres of parkland is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the lively Limerick streets. From here Donegal’s countryside is at your feet and you can spend days fishing and hiking or playing golf. An easy day trip from the hotel is to the medieval village of Adare – complete with thatched cottages and pretty little churches. Limerick is all about exploring history and the Great Outdoors so we’ve picked seven activities for you to do during your stay. The Riverpoint Building on Steamboat Quay towers over the water and if you want to start your day on a high it is a good place to head for views of Limerick. Steamboat Quay is also a great place to relax with a drink or a bite to eat.

Limerick City Museum at Merchants Quay will give you a good idea of the history of the city, while the Hunt Museum has work from Picasso and Leonardo Da Vinci among its huge and respected art collection. An activity for the adrenalin junkies – Limerick Racecourse has seen 200 years of racing and it’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon cheering with the locals as horses pound the course. Take a boat trip and enjoy a tour of the River Shannon with facts and stories about Limerick, or if you’re looking for an activity with a bit of speed there’s the RIB tour which will whizz you to different historical sites like Scattery Island and Beeves Rock Lighthouse. Hold on tight! King John’s Castle has been watching over the city for 800 years and it’s an impressive part of Limerick’s history. Have a look around and pop into St Mary’s Cathedral while you’re there. Limerick is home to Frank McCourt who wrote about his childhood in the book Angela’s Ashes. The book was wildly successful and there’s a popular museum dedicated to Frank and his story.

For some fun action in the evening make your way down to Dock Road where you can catch some comedy at the Dolan’s Warehouse. Shannon River Scenery in Limerick City Ireland Image - cg2p8432940c Image of Shannon River Scenery in Limerick City Ireland PowerPictures – Great photos at affordable prices! Subscribe now and SAVE nearly 60%! Welcome to PowerPictures - our rapidly expanding line of professional stock photos with over 20 million images to choose from! Whether you are looking for visually-stunning photographs for your next marketing campaign or eye-catching pictures for your website or product brochures, we've got what you need for very low prices. All images are supplied in the popular JPEG file format and are available in both lower resolutions (suitable for on-screen applications) and various higher resolutions (suitable for high-quality print applications). We also provide a sophisticated search engine to show you the best results for whatever you are searching for. Not just good photos that happen to use the words you searched on, but actually great photos, sorted to first show the best, most relevant, inspirational, motivational and powerful pictures that other people like you have purchased in the past.

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Question: The Irish city of Limerick is on which river?
Answer: Shannon