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Bunratty Castle
Originally built in 1277 by Thomas de Clare, the Norman-Irish Castle was destroyed
and rebuilt more  than once in the centuries that followed.
It was captured by the O'Brien in 1355 and remained their headquarters until
1712. The MacNamara's, a sept of the O'Briens erected its present form in 1460 but
time took its toll upon the building until Viscount Gort bought it in 1954
and, with the aid of Bord Failte, had it restored by the Office of Public Works.
The Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland and
boasts one of the finest collections of 14th-17th century material in these islands.
The castle and its contents are now held in trust for the nation. The establishment
is managed by the Shannon Development Company, which arranges medieval banquets on a
year-round basis. The castle is open to visitors daily during the year. Admission charge.
Bunratty Folk Park
Features a complete reconstruction of a 19th century village street,
including craft shops, general stores and post office. There are examples
of houses representing a variety of districts from west Clare to the rich
farmlands of Limerick. Traditional crafts of an earlier age may be observed
in action basket weaving, farriery, candle making and the home-baking of bread.
A collection of early agricultural machinery is also on show. In the folk
barn country style meals are served and entertainment provided music, story telling,
Irish dancing and songs.
www.shannonheritage.com
Craggaunowen, near Quin
'The Living Past'
Ireland's original prize-winning centre dedicated to interpreting the
Pre-historic and early Christian eras. Exhibits range from Bronze Age
homesteads to Celtic Chieftain's residences. The "Brendan" boat is located
here. 'The Brendan', a recreation of the type of leather currachs used by St.
Brendan the Navigator in 6th century Coffee shop.
Open daily, Mar. to Oct. and during the weekends of Nov. to Feb.
Dún Guaire castle, Kinvara.
A 16th century castle that stands out prominently on the seashore.  Named
after the 7th century King of Connaught, Guaire whose palace had occupied
the same site, the castle was built by the O'Hynes and later passed into
the hands of the O'Shaughnessy and then the Martyn clans. It was sold to
John Gogarty a poet and writer in 1924 who subsequenty sold it to Lady
Christabel Ampthill.
The castle is open to the public and hosts medieval banquets with traditional
Irish music and story telling.
 Ennis Friary
The Franciscan Friary was founded by The O'Brien kings of Thomond in the 13th
century.
The chancel has very fine tomb carvings dating from the 15th century.
  
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