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Monasterevin

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Monasterevin is an
historic town located in East County Kildare near the border with
county Laois. This lovely riverside town is situated where the Grand
Canal crosses the scenic River Barrow. Monasterevin is named after
the 6th century St. Evin , who founded a monastery in the locality.
The town is known for its many bridges, the oldest being the Ballagh
or Pass Bridge.
Monasterevin was a place of retreat for the poet Gerard Manley
Hopkins and the famous tenor Count John McCormack lived there for
nine years. There is a wonderful atmosphere in Monasterevin every
summer when the town plays host to The Gerard Manley Hopkins
Society's Annual International Summer School. Moore Abbey , site of
a 12th century Cistercian Abbey was the home of John McCormack when
he lived in the town.
The town is not short of charm and character with Georgian houses,
picturesque bridges, canal walks and a beautiful riverside Park. The
18th century saw the rise of Monasterevin as the “Venice of Ireland”
with extensive town planning and the construction of numerous
bridges. The Monasterevin Aqueduct was built to carry the Grand
Canal over the Barrow River. Overall the town has a colourful and
interesting history providing a relaxed and quiet environment to
suit everyone. An example of the appeal of Monasterevin is the Canal
Festival which attracts visitors from near and far with plenty of
entertainment for children and families to enjoy.
Monasterevin is an anglers paradise, with local stretches of both
river and canal are known for excellent game and coarse fishing. The
town makes a good base for exploring County Kildare. |