County Limerick Information

History and Attractions

In the 9th century the central town of Limerick was first constructed, during a brief occupation by the Vikings. The county has since developed and evolved greatly but like much of Ireland, has still maintained strong links with its cultural and historical heritage.

King John's Castle was built during Norman rule in the 12th century. The castle sits on King's Island on the shores of the River Shannon. Its story is steeped in history, from various occupations to surviving the infamous First Siege of Limerick in 1642. Now a place of interest and open to visitors, with information and a museum as testament to its narrative, it stands as an indelible link between the history of Limerick and the present day.

Limerick also boasts St John's Cathedral, (built in 1861 and the tallest structure in Limerick), and the Adare Heritage Centre (which recounts the period of history between the Norman occupation and the beginnings of the Middle Ages). The grand expanse of Kilfinnane Forest, one of the county's wonders of nature houses a lake, garden space, and the ruined remains of the dwelling of poet Aubrey de Vere.

Sport

Limerick is famed for its affinity with sport, especially rugby union, and is referred to by some as 'Sporting Limerick'. Its rugby team, Munster, has a proud history and tradition, having won the European Cup twice, and the only Irish domestic side to have ever beaten the famed New Zealand All Blacks. Munster fans are renowned as being amongst the most passionate in the world, and have helped the side maintain a status as one of the game's top ranked sides. Rugby, alongside the more traditional sport of Gaelic Football and especially Hurling, are at the heart of County Limerick's identity, and a key bridge between its history and its present.

Modern day Limerick has of course been developed to capitalise on the tourism that such a heritage demands. There are numerous hotels throughout the county, ranging from cosy, well kept 2 star lodgings to magnificent 5 star hotel and golf resorts. For those seeking Luxury, Adare Manor Hotel and Golf resort is based in Adare in the south of Limerick, and has a magnificently designed golf course and large villas within the grounds of the main house.  Limerick's regeneration has brought the growth of modern design hotels within the city centre. Many Limerick hotels have magnificent views of the vast, hillside greenery, allowing tourists to enjoy modern day living in the presence of unblemished, natural beauty