The Blarney Stone, nestled within the walls of Blarney Castle in Ireland, is a famous landmark with a unique tradition. Visitors from all over the world come to kiss this stone in hopes of gaining the ‘gift of gab’—the ability to speak eloquently and persuasively. But there’s a catch: you have to kiss it upside down. Let’s dive into the fascinating history, legends, and reasons behind this unusual custom.
Key Takeaways
- The Blarney Stone is believed to bestow the kisser with the ‘gift of gab,’ enhancing their eloquence and persuasiveness.
- The tradition of kissing the stone upside down dates back centuries and was originally done with more dangerous methods.
- Modern safety measures, including iron railings and attendants, ensure visitors can kiss the stone safely.
- The stone is part of the castle’s wall, making it necessary to lean backward to reach it.
- Blarney Castle offers more than just the stone; it has beautiful gardens, historic rooms, and other attractions for visitors.
The Legend Behind the Blarney Stone
The Tale of Cormac McCarthy
The story of the Blarney Stone begins with Cormac McCarthy, the King of Munster. He built Blarney Castle in 1446. One legend says that Cormac was involved in a lawsuit and needed help. He asked the Irish goddess of love and beauty, Cliodhna, for assistance. She told him to kiss the first stone he found on his way to court. He did, and suddenly, he could speak very well and won his case. He then placed the stone in the castle wall.
The Goddess of Wisdom’s Role
Another tale involves a witch who was saved from drowning by a McCarthy. To thank him, she cast a spell on a stone, giving it the power to grant the gift of eloquence. This stone was later set into the battlements of Blarney Castle. Feel the magic of the Blarney Stone as you hear these enchanting stories.
Queen Elizabeth I and the Term ‘Blarney’
So first question: Why is it Blarney? The term ‘blarney’ comes from a story involving Queen Elizabeth I. She wanted Cormac Teige MacCarthy to give up his castle. Cormac used his charm and persuasive speech to delay the Queen’s demands. Frustrated, she said his words were all ‘blarney,’ meaning they were flattering but untrustworthy. This is how the word entered the English language.
The Unique Tradition of Kissing the Stone Upside Down
The Historical Method
The tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone dates back centuries. Originally, people were held by their ankles and lowered headfirst to kiss the stone. This daring method was not for the faint-hearted and required a lot of trust in the person holding you. This tradition, which has been followed for centuries, is believed to grant the gift of eloquence or persuasive speech to those who successfully kiss the stone.
Modern Safety Measures
Today, the process is much safer. Visitors lie on their backs, lean backward, and hold onto iron rails to kiss the stone. A trained attendant is always there to guide you and ensure your safety. This modern method is a far cry from the old days but still offers a thrilling experience.
Why Upside Down?
Why do people kiss the Blarney Stone upside down? The stone is located in a hard-to-reach spot on the castle wall, about six inches down from the rooftop base. To reach it, you have to lean backward, making it necessary to kiss it upside down. This unique position adds to the mystique and challenge, making the achievement more than the kiss!
The Stone’s Mystical Powers
The Gift of Gab Explained
The Blarney Stone is famous for granting the “gift of gab” to those who kiss it. This means you’ll be able to speak persuasively and eloquently. The legend says that Cormac Teige MacCarthy, who was not a confident speaker, kissed the stone and then convinced Queen Elizabeth I to let him keep his lands. Imagine having that kind of persuasive power!
Other Legends and Myths
There are many other stories about the Blarney Stone. Some say it was Jacob’s Pillow, brought to Ireland by Jeremiah. Others believe it was the deathbed pillow for St. Columba. One popular tale is that a witch saved from drowning revealed the stone’s power to the MacCarthy family. The stone is also known as the Stone of Eloquence.
Famous People Who Have Kissed the Stone
Many famous people have kissed the Blarney Stone to gain its mystical powers. From world leaders to celebrities, the list is long. Even though the tradition is old, it still attracts people from all over the world. So, if you ever visit, you’ll be in good company!
The Blarney Stone is more than just a rock; it’s a piece of history and legend that continues to captivate people from all walks of life.
Visiting Blarney Castle
Best Times to Visit
If you want to avoid the crowds, January and February are the best months to visit. During these off-season months, you can enjoy a peaceful and clean environment. However, summer is also a popular time, so expect more visitors then.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you visit Blarney Castle, be prepared for a lot of walking and exploring. The castle grounds are vast, with many hidden gems like the Herbaceous Border and the POISON GARDEN. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as the spiral staircases can be quite slippery. Also, keep some cash on hand for small purchases, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
Other Attractions at Blarney Castle
Apart from the famous Blarney Stone, there are several other attractions to explore. The Blarney House is a must-see, especially during the summer when it is open for tours. The house is just 200 meters south of the castle and offers a glimpse into the life of the Colthurst family, who have owned the estate since 1704. Additionally, the castle grounds feature various gardens, caves, and even a murder room for those interested in a bit of history and mystery.
The Stone’s Historical Journey
Origins of the Blarney Stone
The origins of the Blarney Stone are shrouded in mystery and legend. Some say it was brought to Ireland from Scotland, while others believe it came from England’s Stonehenge. However, in 2014, geologists from the University of Glasgow determined that the famous rock is indeed from the south of Ireland. This discovery adds another layer to the stone’s already fascinating history.
How It Came to Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle, located in County Cork, has a rich history dating back over 600 years. The first structure on the site was a wooden fortification built in the 10th century. It was later replaced by a stone building around 1210 A.D. The current castle, which houses the Blarney Stone, was constructed in 1446 by Cormac McCarthy, the King of Munster. The stone was added to the tower to reinforce the castle in the form of a battlement.
The Stone’s Role in Irish Culture
The Blarney Stone is more than just a piece of rock; it is a symbol of Irish culture and heritage. The term “blarney” itself is said to have originated from Queen Elizabeth I, who used it to describe the clever excuses made by Cormac McCarthy to delay the surrender of the castle. Today, kissing the Blarney Stone is a tradition that attracts visitors from all over the world, each hoping to gain the “gift of gab” or the ability to speak with eloquence and persuasion.
Steeped in history, myth, and mystery, Blarney Castle is a world landmark and one of Ireland’s greatest treasures.
Summary: The Blarney Stone’s journey from its mysterious origins to its current home in Blarney Castle is a tale rich in history and legend. From its addition to the castle in 1446 to its role in Irish culture, the stone continues to captivate the imaginations of those who visit.
Safety and Cleanliness Concerns
Measures Taken for Visitor Safety
When visiting the Blarney Stone, safety is a top priority. The stone is located 85 feet up, and the experience can be daunting, especially for those with a fear of heights. In the past, visitors were held by the ankles and lowered over the edge to kiss the stone. Today, modern safety measures are in place. Visitors lie on a mat, lean backward, and hold onto iron railings. Assistants are also present to help ensure everyone’s safety.
Cleaning Protocols
With 400,000 pairs of lips touching the Blarney Stone each year, cleanliness is crucial. The stone and surrounding areas, including the mat, iron bars, and railings, are cleaned regularly throughout the day. A World Health Organization-approved cleanser is used, which kills 99.9% of germs and viruses. However, it’s important to note that the stone is not cleaned between every kiss.
Addressing Common Fears
While there have been minor incidents, serious injuries or fatalities directly associated with kissing the Blarney Stone are extremely rare. The tragic incident in 2017, where a visitor fell from another part of the castle, led to the implementation of additional safeguards like iron guide rails and protective crossbars. These measures help ensure that the experience remains safe for all visitors.
Conclusion
Kissing the Blarney Stone is more than just a quirky tradition; it’s a blend of history, legend, and a bit of adventure. While the act of hanging upside down to kiss a stone might seem odd, it’s this very challenge that adds to the allure. The promise of gaining the ‘gift of gab’—the ability to speak eloquently and persuasively—has drawn countless visitors to Blarney Castle. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a lover of folklore, the experience is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you ever find yourself in Ireland, don’t miss the chance to be part of this unique tradition. Who knows? You might just walk away with a bit more charm and eloquence.
