Towns and
Villages
Athy
The Ford of Ae
Athy is a fine example of an Anglo-Norman linear settlement but
its roots go deeper. Founded in the 12th century on a river
crossing, Athy takes its name from a 2nd century battle fought
there which resulted in the death of Ae, the son of a Munster
Chieftain. Thereafter the river crossing was known in Gaelic as
Áth Ae (meaning the Ford of Ae) a name subsequently anglicised as
Athy.
The Town Of Athy
The town of Athy is a busy town brim full of heritage and
character. Narrow streets crowded with little shops exude the
essence of the Irish country market town. It is dominated by the
well-preserved 16th century White's Castle which guards the bridge
over the river Barrow in the heart of the town, a tall turreted
tower, built to protect the town's inhabitants.
The Heritage Centre
The Centre is situated in the restored early 18th century market
house. Through engaging displays and a rich collection of
artefacts, the centre covers all aspects of local history,
particularly, the Gordon Bennett Cup Motor Race of 1903 and the
WWI period when many young men from the town and surrounding areas
enlisted. One such man, Lieut. John Holland, won the highest award
for bravery in the British army, the Victoria Cross. The centre
also houses the only permanent exhibition in Ireland on the
Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton who was born at nearby
Kilkea. The centerpiece of the collection is a model of his ship,
The Endurance, portrayed in the BBC drama with Kenneth Brannagh as
Shackleton.
Moat of Ardscull
About 3 miles outside Athy on the Kilcullen road is one of the
largest Norman mottes in the country, Ardscull Motte or Moat. The
35ft high mound with its surrounding ditch and bank previously
incorporated an enclosed yard and is believed to have been created
in the 12th century. A plaque commemorating the 1903 Gordon
Bennett Motor Race was erected on the site.
Barrow Branch of the Grand Canal
The Barrow Branch brought passenger and freight barges from
Lowtown on the Grand Canal to the river Barrow from 1793 until
1960. Today the canal is once again used by pleasure boaters and
it remains a superb resource for the area, rich in flora and
fauna. The towpath provides an excellent walking route for a
leisurely stroll or a planned hike - for as far as you want to go.
It's only 45km (28 and a quarter miles) to Lowtown!
Athy has an annual water festival, a Bluegrass music festival, and
a weekend devoted to Ernest Shackleton.
|
