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Leighlinbridge
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Leighlinbridge is a
historical village on the river Barrow in County Carlow that is
almost half-way between Carlow Town (10 minutes drive) and Kilkenny
City.At the northern entrance to the village is a sculpture by
Michael Warren, depicting the thrones of the ancient seat of the
Kings of South Leinster at Dinn Righ (The hill of the Kings)
With its narrow winding streets that gently rise and fall with the
lie of the land, grey limestone malthouses and jagged castle ruins
overlooking a 14th century bridge, the centre of the little town of
Leighlinbridge opens a vista of an earlier Ireland to the visitor.
The town's original Black Castle, built in 1181, was one of the
earliest Norman fortresses in Ireland. It was granted to John de
Claville by Hugh de Lacy, the powerful Norman baron who governed
Ireland for Henry II. The present castle was built by Sir Edward
Bellingham in 1547 and fell to Cromwell's forces in 1650.
The wonderful nine-arched bridge across the Barrow is the oldest on
the river. It was built in 1320 by Maurice Jakis, a canon of Kildare
Cathedral, to facilitate movement within his diocese. The bridge was
widened in 1789 and the careful observer can see signs of this work.
Kingfishers and many other species of native wildlife, including
otters, can be seen from the bridge
In recent times the village has excelled in the achievement of
environmental awards. Of particular note was the winning of The
Entente Floral in 2001. This is a major European Environmental
competition in which the village came out on top. The villages many
awards have installed a great sense of pride in the locals. Great
efforts are made every day to ensure the village's appearance is of
an excellent standard.
The village's location on the River Barrow makes it ideal for
cruising or fishing breaks. |
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Leighlinbridge Holiday Homes - County Carlow, Ireland