Blarney Castle is one of the more elaborate tower houses in Ireland. However, most people journey there not to see the castle but to kiss the Blarney Stone.

Legend has it that kissing the Blarney Stone will give one the gift of gab. I think this is true because Irish people certainly have this gift. It might be more aptly described as Queen Elizabeth I stated "a lot of Blarney"!

It is amazing what people will do to kiss this stone. They climb a total of six stories up steep narrow stone spiral staircases inside a castle tower. The stairs are deliberately narrow to prevent the enemy from accessing the castle. Parts of the steps are extremely dangerous. The line forms along the parapet waiting a turn for the ritual kiss. There is much curiosity and neck straining to get a glimpse of the kissing activity. When the kisser in front of you gets his turn you finally see what is almost unbelievable. The kisser lies down on his back with head hanging over an opening in the battlements. A castle assistant holds him as he is lowered to allow the kiss on the stone two feet down. He catches a glimpse of the open space between him and the ground six stories below and you suddenly wonder about the holding ability of the castle assistant, but you take your turn. After the ritual is complete, you are helped to your feet to take the return journey down even more dangerous steps. However, there is a true exhilaration from knowing that you have done this most anticipated deed.

When you visit the site to kiss the stone take time to view the marvels of this castle built almost six hundred years ago and enjoy the beautiful views from the top.