OCTOBER IS THE month when we embrace ghost stories and watch horror films. With the arrival of Halloween, we become even more aware of the presence of poltergeists and supernatural forces.
Ireland has always had a fascinating relationship with death and how we celebrate the dead. There are countless cemeteries across the country that have become the final resting place for people from all walks of life. Whether you’re visiting your grandparents in Glasnevin Cemetery or W.B. Yeats in Drumcliffe by his beloved Benbulben, there’s something bizarrely grounding walking amongst the dead. To acknowledge the overwhelming volumes of stories held within these spaces can give us a greater appreciation and lust for our own lives.
Our inherent interest in death combined with a love of storytelling, however, doesn’t need to be limited to the Halloween season. There are a number of brilliant tours and museums available to visit at various graveyards in Ireland to learn about our long history of death and the many traditions – and even turns of phrase – born from the ceremony of death.
With that in mind, as we indulge our interest in the afterlife and the supernatural this month, here are some of Ireland’s extraordinary burial sites to visit.
Glasnevin Cemetery, Ireland’s largest – and most famous – of its kind has welcomed countless visitors over the years. The site has an extensive and extraordinary history as the final resting place of over 1.5 million people. There, you’ll find the graves of some of Ireland’s prominent political figures such as Michael Collins, Roger Casement, Daniel O’Connell, Kevin Barry as well as many notable names from the world of literature and music; Brendan Behan, Luke Kelly and My Left Foot author, Christy Brown.
A popular attraction for tourists and locals, Glasnevin Cemetery offers a variety of tours around the site, sharing stories integral to Ireland’s history as well as giving insights into the lives of some of the lesser-known individuals buried there.
After a stroll around its vast terrain (approximately 125 acres) be sure to stop at The Gravediggers for a cold pint.
In Ancient Egypt, pyramids were built as burial tombs for the pharaohs along the River Nile. However, this tradition of constructing unique infrastructures for the dead existed across Europe, as well. In County Wicklow, you’ll find the unexpected sight of a substantially sized pyramid at Old Kilbride Cemetery in Arklow.
Built in 1785, the pyramid was made as a mausoleum for Ralph Howard, the Viscount of Wicklow, and his family. Ralph Howard died in 1789, in his home in Dublin, and was interred in the pyramid. His widow, Alice Forward, who became the Countess of Wicklow, passed away in 1807.
There’s an air of mystery surrounding the Howard mausoleum as it was sealed in 1823, long before the 33 coffin slots had been filled. In all, 18 members of the Howard family were laid to rest in the pyramid.
Situated close to the home of Daniel O’Connell, and the final resting place of Mary O’Connell, Derrynane Abbey is one of Ireland’s most picturesque graveyards. Resting on the coast of Kerry, the Abbey overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and nearby beaches. Next time you’re visiting the Ring of Kerry be sure to visit this spectacular monastic site.
Located a stone’s throw from Dublin’s Grand Canal, you could easily pass by the gates of Mount Jerome Cemetery and Crematorium with little notice. Nestled in Harold’s Cross, as you venture up its long entrance path, the breadth of the graveyard will instantly stop you in your tracks.
Enveloped by dense trees and embellished with impressive headstones, the grounds of Mount Jerome, founded in 1836, make for a beautiful setting for Autumnal strolls. While you’re there, seek out the graves of Waking Ned actor David Kelly, author Maeve Binchy and writer J.M. Synge.
Established in the 7th Century by St. Kevin, the Glendalough Cemetery and Monastic Ruins is one of Ireland’s oldest and most stunning burial grounds. Steeped in history, there are a number of notable ornate monuments to visit, namely the Market Cross and St. Kevin’s Cross. Within the monastic site, you’ll also be able to explore the remains of ancient ruins which once stood as churches and kitchens. Elsewhere, and fully intact, is The Round Tower.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say