These images from the collections of Ireland’s memory-keeper, The National Library of Ireland, show that the iconic Irish scenery is timeless, varied and stunning.
1. Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
A wonder of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, the Cliffs of Moher are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site in The Burren, County Clare. The sheer size of this Irish landmark and the natural beauty, wildness and ruggedness of the coastline always impress even the most well-travelled. The cliffs rise to over 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and such is the imposing height and views out to sea, it feels like you can almost see the faint outline of the east coast of America on a clear day.
Image courtesy of the National Library of Ireland
2. Devenish Island, County Fermanagh
Lying just downstream from Enniskillen, Ireland’s only island town, Devenish is one of the many islands scattered around Lough Erne, a lakeland paradise in County Fermanagh. St Molaise founded a monastic settlement here in the sixth century and during its history it has been raided by Vikings, burned, and flourished again as a parish church site. A feeling of timelessness and tranquillity pervades the island, and among the many interesting monastic ruins to explore is a perfectly preserved round tower, which can be climbed using internal ladders.
Image courtesy of the National Library of Ireland