Whispering Stones

Episode Synopsis: Pallas Castle: Secrets of Rebellion, Resilience, and Ruin. In this episode of Whispering Stones , we uncover the fascinating history of Pallas Castle , one of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval tower houses in County Galway's heart. Once a stronghold of the Burke family , this towering fortress has witnessed centuries of rebellion , conquest , and architectural evolution. From its...

Episode Synopsis: Echoes of Flame and Folklore – The Tragic Tale of Menlo Castle In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones , we delve into the haunting history of Menlo Castle, a once-grand Jacobean mansion turned ivy-clad ruin on the banks of the River Corrib in County Galway. Explore the castle’s origins as a 16th-century tower house, its transformation under the wealthy Blake family, and...

Synopsis: In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to Loughrea , a historic town in County Galway known for its stunning Celtic Revival art , medieval heritage, and tranquil lake. Discover the fascinating stories behind St. Brendan's Cathedral , a treasure trove of Irish ecclesiastical art featuring works by Sarah Purser, Evie Hone, and Jack Yeats. Explore the ancient crannogs of Lough Re...

Synopsis : In this episode of Whispering Stones , we uncover the fascinating history of Lough Cutra Castle , a stunning Gothic masterpiece in County Galway, Ireland. Designed by renowned architect John Nash and overlooking the largest privately owned lake in Europe, this estate is steeped in centuries of Irish history, mythology, and legend. From the sacred islands dotted with ancient stone altars...

Synopsis: In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones , we unravel the extraordinary history of Kylemore Abbey , one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks in the stunning landscapes of Connemara, County Galway . From its beginnings as a grand romantic gift built by Mitchell Henry for his beloved wife Margaret to its transformation into a Benedictine sanctuary, Kylemore Abbey’s story is one of lo...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to the storied ruins of Knockmoy Abbey in County Galway, Ireland , delving into its fascinating history as a Cistercian monastery founded by the powerful King Cathal “Red Hand” O’Conor in 1190. Nestled near the Abbert River, Knockmoy Abbey, also known as the Monastery of the Hill of Victory , has witnessed centuries of change—from...

Episode Synopsis: In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to Kiltiernan , a hauntingly beautiful monastic site in County Galway . Believed to date back to the 5th century and possibly founded by Saint Tiernan , this ancient Irish sanctuary holds mysteries as enduring as its stone walls. Join us as we explore Kiltiernan’s storied past—from its early Christian roots and unique architectura...

Episode Synopsis: "Kilronan: Whispers of Saints and Stones on Inishmore" In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to Kilronan, the historic heart of Inishmore, the largest of Ireland’s Aran Islands. Nestled off the rugged coast of County Galway, Kilronan—known as Cill Rónáin in Irish—is a Gaeltacht village where ancient legends, sacred sites, and the Irish language thrive. Through vivid s...

Episode Title : Kilmacduagh: Ireland's Leaning Tower and the Monastery of Legends Subtitle : Exploring the Myths, Monks, and Mysteries of County Galway’s Sacred Ruins In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to Kilmacduagh , an ancient monastic site near Gort, County Galway . Famous for its leaning round tower —the tallest in Ireland—Kilmacduagh is a treasure trove of Irish history , myth...

In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to the remote Isert Kelly Castle in County Galway, a 15th-century tower house steeped in history, rebellion, and mystery. Once home to the powerful MacHubert Burke family, this medieval stronghold witnessed centuries of turmoil, from the O'Donnell clan’s fiery attack during the Nine Years' War to its confiscation by Cromwell’s forces. Today, the ca...

In this episode of Whispering Stones , we embark on a journey to Inchagoill, a mystical island on Lough Corrib in County Galway. Rich in ancient history, Inchagoill is home to sacred ruins, including St. Patrick’s Church and the 12th-century Church of the Saints. As we explore the island’s historic churches, stone inscriptions, and ancient relics, we delve into the legends surrounding St. Patrick...

In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to Gort, County Galway , where history, culture, and resilience intertwine. From its origins as the domain of King Guaire the Generous to its role in the Great Famine , and its literary connection to W.B. Yeats during the Irish Literary Revival , Gort is rich with stories. We’ll explore its medieval past, the devastation of Cromwell’s siege , and i...

Synopsis : In this episode of Whispering Stones , we journey to the heart of County Galway to explore the mysterious and captivating Glinsk Castle . Once a formidable semi-fortified house, this 17th-century castle is now a haunting reminder of Ireland’s turbulent past. Learn about the Burkes of Glinsk , an influential Anglo-Norman family that played pivotal roles in historic conflicts like the Nin...

In Part Two of Whispering Stones ' exploration of Galway City , we continue our journey through the turbulent and transformative events that shaped the city’s history. This episode covers Galway’s struggles during the 16th and 17th centuries , including the Wars of the Three Kingdoms , the Cromwellian siege , and the city's role in the Williamite War in Ireland . As the power of the merchant famil...

In this episode of Whispering Stones , we explore Galway's rich and storied history, known as "The City of the Tribes." Journey back to medieval Ireland as we uncover Galway’s origins, from its foundation as Dún Gaillimhe in 1124 by the King of Connacht, to its transformation into a thriving trade hub under the control of fourteen powerful merchant families. These families, the famous Tribes of Ga...

In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones , titled "Echoes of Power: The Hidden Legacy of Fiddaun Castle," we journey to the heart of County Galway to explore the fascinating history of Fiddaun Castle—a 16th-century tower house steeped in mystery and intrigue. Nestled between Lough Doo and Lough Aslaun, this well-preserved fortress once stood as a powerful stronghold of the O'Shaughnessy Cl...

In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones , titled "Feartagar Castle: Echoes of the De Burgo Legacy in County Galway," we delve deep into the rich history of Feartagar Castle, also known as Jennings Castle. Located in the heart of County Galway, this 16th-century stronghold was once home to the powerful de Burgo family, who played a pivotal role in Ireland's medieval history. Through vivid...

In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," we journey to Dunmore, County Galway—a town steeped in rich history and ancient legends. Discover the origins of Dunmore, from its roots as a "Great Fort" to its role in the epic stories of the O'Connor Clan and the legendary warrior Haiste. Uncover the mysteries of Dunmore Castle, the ancient Friary, and the historic Clooneen Mill while explorin...

In this episode of Whispering Stones, titled "Echoes of Generosity: The Mystical Legacy of Dunguaire Castle," we delve into the rich history and enchanting legends surrounding Ireland's most photographed castle, Dunguaire Castle. Located on the scenic shores of Galway Bay, near the charming village of Kinvara in County Galway, this 16th-century stronghold has witnessed centuries of history, from i...

In this captivating episode of Whispering Stones, we delve into the rich history and intriguing architecture of Drumacoo, County Galway. Located just north of Ballinderreen and east of Galway Bay, Drumacoo is a medieval ecclesiastical site with a legacy dating back to the 6th century. Join us as we explore the monastic settlement founded by the remarkable female saint, Sourney, and uncover the arc...

Coole Park: Echoes of Ireland's Literary Legends" In this episode of "Whispering Stones," we journey to the enchanting woodlands of Coole Park in Gort, County Galway. Once the home of Lady Gregory, a key figure in the Irish Literary Revival, Coole Park was a vibrant cultural hub frequented by literary giants like W.B. Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, and John Millington Synge. Explore the rich history...

In this captivating episode of "Whispering Stones," titled "Echoes of Clonbrock: The Rise and Fall of a Noble Irish Estate," we delve into the rich history of Clonbrock House in Ahascragh, County Galway. Explore the fascinating journey of the Dillon family, descendants of Sir Henry de Leon, who established their legacy in Ireland in the late 12th century. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous...

Echoes of Resilience: The Timeless Tale of Claregalway Abbey" In this episode of Whispering Stones, we delve into the captivating history of Claregalway Abbey, a significant Franciscan Friary in County Galway. Founded in the mid-13th century by Anglo-Norman lord John de Cogan, Claregalway Abbey is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Franciscan monks who lived there. Explore th...

Dive into the mystical past of Castle Kirk, a storied national monument located on a small island in Lough Corrib, County Galway. This episode of Whispering Stones delves into the rich history and enchanting legends surrounding one of Ireland's oldest mortared castles. Discover tales of its initial construction in the 12th century, dramatic sieges, and prominence under the reign of the infamous Pi...

Explore the rich history and opulent charm of Bermingham House, Co. Galway, in this episode of Whispering Stones. Originally built in 1730 by John de Bermingham, Earl of Louth, this Georgian mansion has been a witness to centuries of Irish aristocracy. Discover its journey from the seat of the Bermingham family, Barons of Athenry, to its vibrant days as the residence of Lady Mollie Cusack Smith, r...