Magical Ireland: A European Tour in a Ditty

     Full of history and tradition rich in folk music, Ireland is an ideal location for a performance tour. The folklore surrounding some of the key venues in Ireland just enhances its novelty. Here are some places that make Ireland a truly magical, memorable performance destination.

Blarney Castle

     Located just outside Cork, Blarney Castle is a place of historic battles and interesting origins. The castle speaks for itself, but it is a block of bluestone that will have you speaking in soliloquies. According to legend, once kissed, the Blarney stone will give the gift of gab. Legend also says Goddess Cliodhna advised the builder of Blarney Castle to kiss a stone in preparation for his court hearing. With the help of a little magic, he was able to plead his case without offending.

Rock of Cashel

ilaria, dramatic sky, Brightness and contrast, orientation by Yuri Kim, CC BY-SA 2.0

     Folklore suggests that St. Patrick banished the devil from his cave in the Devil’s Bit Mountain. The devil dropped a piece of rock from his mouth and the Rock of Cashel was formed. This circular stone fort also has associations with the shamrock which was said to be plucked by St. Patrick in an attempt to show the significance of the Holy Trinity.

St. Michan’s Crypt

Jennifer Boyer, St. Michan's Church crypt, Brightness and contrast, cropping, black & white by Yuri Kim, CC BY-SA 2.0

     St. Michan’s Church is a beautiful parish for a music lover, constructed around 1686. It has a playable organ that dates back to 1724. Handel is said to have composed his Messiah here. However, for someone who likes things to get a little spooky, St. Michan’s Crypt, located just below the church, is a burial chamber full of artifacts, mystery, and mummies. The crypt has a large array of inhabitants from 400-year-old nuns to sawed-in-half fearless Crusaders.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

     One of Ireland’s largest churches, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a must-see. With a history of over 800 years, St. Patrick’s has been visited by hundreds of past poignant figures. St. Patrick’s rich history offers many stories, a famous one being that of the “Door of Reconciliation.” Two feuding families, not wanting to risk their lives, thought to chance their arms by shaking hands through a hole cut into a door. The spot of Handel’s first Messiah performance, St. Patrick’s is a must for any music connoisseur.

     The luck of the Irish is surely with you, as Encore Tours is offering a way to play in the very famous St. Patty’s Day Parade! The performance of a lifetime and a truly enchanted experience awaits you, so contact us to get started.