Whispering Stones

Discover the haunting ruins, Norman history, abandoned mills and hidden heritage of Ardmayle, a quiet village beside the River Suir in County Tipperary.In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the hidden history of Ardmayle, County Tipperary. From the crumbling remains of a 19th-century woollen mill to the ruined Ardmayle Manor destroyed during the Williamite wars, this quiet village beside the River Suir is steeped in fascinating Irish history. Bernice also visits St. John the Baptist Church, medieval tower houses, and uncovers the stories of the Butler family, Richard Long, and the forgotten past woven into this beautiful Tipperary landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke journeys to Ahenny in County Tipperary, home to some of Ireland’s oldest and most remarkable High Crosses. Discover the rich history of the Kingdom of Ossory, explore nearby megalithic tombs like Knockroe and Baunfree, and uncover the symbolism carved into these early medieval masterpieces. A short, engaging dive into Irish heritage, folklore, and ancient landscapes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the rich history of Westport, County Mayo—one of Ireland’s most beautifully planned Georgian towns. From the legacy of Gráinne Mhaol and the powerful Browne family to the architectural splendour of Westport House, this episode explores centuries of heritage along the shores of Clew Bay.Discover the influence of the 1916 Rising, the Irish War of Independence, and Civil War events that shaped the town, all beneath the watchful presence of Croagh Patrick. A compact, engaging journey through Irish history, architecture, and culture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the rich history of Turlough, County Mayo, home to one of Ireland’s best-preserved round towers and the National Museum of Country Life. In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores early Christian Ireland, the ruins of St. Patrick’s Church, ancient burial traditions, and the dramatic life of George “Fighting Fitzgerald.” Discover Irish heritage, folklore, archaeology, and hidden stories woven into this remarkable Mayo landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores the fascinating history of Strade Abbey in County Mayo, a medieval Dominican friary with a dramatic origin story. Founded in the 13th century and famously transferred from the Franciscans after a bold act of persuasion, the abbey holds stunning stone carvings, a rare Pietà sculpture, and centuries of hidden stories. Discover Ireland’s medieval past, religious rivalries, and the legacy of patrons, friars, and local history in this short, engaging historical podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nestled along the banks of the River Moy near Killala Bay in County Mayo, Rosserk Abbey is one of Ireland’s best-preserved Franciscan friaries. Founded in the 15th century by the Joyce family, this remarkable medieval site holds centuries of history—from its unique Third Order Franciscan community to its destruction during the Elizabethan era.In this episode of Whispering Stones, we explore the architecture, legends, and quiet beauty of Rosserk Friary, uncovering the story of Saint Searc, the nearby Moyne Abbey, and the enduring spirit of Ireland’s sacred past. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the windswept shores of Clew Bay in County Mayo as we explore Rockfleet Castle, the historic stronghold of Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley (Gráinne Mhaol).In this episode of Whispering Stones, we uncover the fascinating story behind this 16th-century Irish tower house, from sea battles and political intrigue to Grace O’Malley’s famous meeting with Queen Elizabeth I.Discover the dramatic life of Ireland’s most powerful female pirate, the secrets hidden within the walls of Rockfleet Castle, and the legends that still echo through its stone corridors today.Perfect for lovers of Irish history, castles, folklore, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, host Bernice Cooke explores the quiet village of The Neale in County Mayo, a place filled with extraordinary history and mysterious monuments.Just kilometres from Cong, Cross and Ballinrobe, The Neale sits on a limestone plateau surrounded by archaeological treasures including prehistoric cairns, stone circles, ringforts and crannogs. Yet it is the village’s unusual monuments that truly capture the imagination.Join Bernice as she uncovers the story of The Neale Pyramid, an 18th-century architectural folly designed by Lord Charlemont, once crowned with a statue of Apollo. Discover the Temple Monument, a Doric-columned retreat built within the old estate walls, and the mysterious carvings known as the Gods of The Neale, featuring mythical figures like a unicorn and griffin.The episode also touches on Irish mythology and history, including the legendary warrior Lugh Lámhfhada, the Land League movement, and the moment when the term “boycott” first entered the English language at nearby Lough Mask House.If you enjoy Irish history, folklore, mythology, hidden monuments and the forgotten stories of rural Ireland, this is a place where the stones truly whisper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, Bernice Cooke explores Murrisk Abbey in County Mayo, a 15th-century Augustinian friary nestled along the shores of Clew Bay beneath Croagh Patrick. Founded in 1456 and steeped in legend, reform, and Reformation-era upheaval, this medieval Irish ruin may stand on the site of an earlier church linked to Saint Patrick himself. Discover the stories behind its founders, its striking Gothic features, and the mystery hidden within its name — whether “marsh by the sea” or something far older. A brief, atmospheric journey into Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and one of Mayo’s most peaceful historic sites. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the windswept ruins of Moyne Abbey in County Mayo, one of the finest surviving examples of a Franciscan monastery in Ireland. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the abbey’s medieval origins, its links to St Patrick, the powerful MacWilliam Burke family, and the dramatic events that unfolded during the Tudor conquest of Connacht.From hidden water channels and sacred springs to monks fleeing by sea and bells gifted by the Queen of Spain, Moyne Abbey holds centuries of whispered history within its stone walls. Discover why this remote ruin near Killala Bay became a centre of learning, faith, and survival on Ireland’s rugged Atlantic coast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, we explore the haunting ruins of Moore Hall in County Mayo, Ireland — a Georgian manor burned during the Irish Civil War and wrapped in stories of curses, famine relief, rebellion, and restless spirits. From the powerful Moore family to chilling ghost sightings in the forests around Lough Carra, this episode uncovers the tragic history and paranormal legends of one of Ireland’s most atmospheric abandoned houses. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, haunted places, folklore, and ghost stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the haunting ruins of Inishmaine Abbey in County Mayo, a once-island monastery on the shores of Lough Mask. Founded in the 7th century by St. Cormac and later rebuilt as a Benedictine nunnery, this peaceful medieval site holds centuries of Irish history, folklore, and spiritual life. In this short and atmospheric episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the abbey’s hidden details, imagined beasts carved in stone, and the quiet beauty of this lesser-known Irish heritage site. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On the remote coast of Doonamoe, County Mayo, history, geology, and art collide. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores Dún na mBó, an ancient promontory fort overlooking the Atlantic, a dramatic natural blowhole carved by the sea, and a powerful contemporary sculpture marking a Celtic “thin place.” A short, atmospheric journey along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way where stones still whisper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nestled between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask, Cong in County Mayo is a village shaped by water, faith, and folklore. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores Cong’s layered history — from its 12th-century abbey and the exquisite Cross of Cong, to its links with Ireland’s last High King, underground rivers, Oscar Wilde’s family, and Hollywood’s The Quiet Man. A short, atmospheric journey through one of Ireland’s most enchanting villages, where medieval stones and modern stories quietly intertwine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the layered history of Castlebar, the county town of County Mayo. From medieval Gaelic clans and Norman castles to rebellion, famine, industry, and refuge, Castlebar reveals a powerful story of survival and transformation. Discover Barry’s Castle, the Races of Castlebar, the Linen Hall, the Land League, and the remarkable Jewish community that created “Little Jerusalem” in the west of Ireland. A short, atmospheric journey through Irish history where stones still whisper.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nestled beside Clew Bay, just outside Newport in County Mayo, Burrishoole Abbey has witnessed over five centuries of faith, rebellion, and quiet resistance.In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke tells the dramatic story of a Dominican friary founded by the Burke clan, protected by pirate royalty, scarred by English occupation, and remembered for a miracle that saved a young nun’s life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hidden beneath the rolling green landscape of County Mayo lies Ballintober Abbey, a place where history, legend, and faith have endured for more than 800 years.In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the remarkable story of an abbey founded by kings, shaped by fire and famine, and sustained by a community who never abandoned it — even when its roof was gone for over two centuries.From the exile of King Cathal Crovdearg O’Conor and the myths surrounding the abbey’s foundation, to the burial of Grace O’Malley’s son and the chilling tale of the priest hunter Seán na Sagart, this episode weaves medieval Ireland, rebellion, devotion, and folklore into one unforgettable place.A journey through Ballintober Abbey, County Mayo, where the stones truly whisper. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hidden beneath ivy and brambles near Newmarket-on-Fergus, the ruins of Urlanmore Castle tell a haunting tale of power, rebellion, and folklore. Built in the 15th century by the MacClancy clan, this once-imposing tower house is believed to be the birthplace of the legendary Máire Rua — one of Ireland’s most infamous historical women. In this season finale of Whispering Stones, we explore collapsing walls, faded frescoes, and the quiet mystery of a castle reclaimed by nature, as our journey through County Clare comes to an end. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Journey to Tuamgraney, a quiet East Clare village where myth, memory, and stone intertwine. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the haunting legend of Grian, Ireland’s oldest church still in use, Viking raids, Brian Boru’s lasting footprint, and the sacred landscape of Lough Derg. A short, atmospheric history rich in folklore, medieval architecture, and ancient whispers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke journeys to Scattery Island (Inis Cathaigh) on the Shannon Estuary in County Clare. From the legends of Saint Senan and the sea monster Cathach, to Viking raids, Norse kings, Napoleonic defences, and the island’s last families, this short and engaging history uncovers one of Ireland’s most fascinating monastic islands. A story of faith, folklore, invasion, survival, and solitude — whispered through stone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the haunting beauty of Quin Abbey, one of County Clare’s most captivating medieval sites. In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke uncovers the dramatic story of this Franciscan friary—built on the bones of a Norman castle, shaped by battles for Thomond, shattered by Henry VIII and Cromwell, and wrapped in myths of hidden gold, ghostly guardians, and mysterious tunnels. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, ancient ruins, and County Clare travel inspiration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the wind-swept limestone desert of the Burren as Bernice Cooke uncovers the story of Poulnabrone Dolmen, Ireland’s oldest dated megalithic monument. In this short and immersive history episode, discover Neolithic life, ancient burial rituals, archaeological revelations, and the secrets held within one of Ireland’s most hauntingly beautiful landscapes. Perfect for fans of Irish history, folklore, archaeology, and hidden-gem travel spots. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join me Bernice Cooke, Artist and Writer, on this episode of Whispering Stones as we wander into the remote parish of Oughtmama in County Clare, a landscape rich with early medieval churches, prehistoric cairns, holy wells, Burren geology, and the lingering presence of Lady Augusta Gregory.Discover hidden monastic sites, mysterious hut circles on Turlough Hill, ruined castles of the O’Loghlen clan, and the windswept inlets of Aughinish and Finavarra. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, archaeology, folklore, and off-track adventures. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the stony heart of the Burren in County Clare and uncover the remarkable story of Newtown Castle—one of Ireland’s few cylindrical tower houses. In this short, atmospheric episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the castle’s unusual architecture, its powerful O’Loghlen chiefs known as the “Kings” and “Princes of the Burren,” and its transformation into the Burren College of Art. Perfect for history lovers, Irish travel dreamers, and anyone enchanted by Ireland’s hidden heritage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the layered history of Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare. — from its ancient origins as Cora Chaitlín, “The Weir of Cathleen,” to the legendary horseman Sir Edward O’Brien and the sacred stories of Fenloe Monastery and its mysterious plague stone. Journey through seven ancient parishes, mythic chieftains, and forgotten holy wells in this brief but captivating wander through Clare’s heritage. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, and travel storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step back in time with Whispering Stones as Bernice Cooke uncovers the layered history of Newhall House, a Georgian gem near Ennis, County Clare. Once tied to the O’Briens, MacDonnells, and Armstrongs, this grand estate holds centuries of Irish gentry intrigue, rebellion, and romance. Alongside real history, Bernice teases the legends of Newhall — from a hidden cave said to grant eternal youth to the haunting mermaid of Killone.Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, and heritage houses, this bite-sized episode brings the stones of Clare to life once more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke explores the fascinating story of Mount Ievers Estate in Sixmilebridge, County Clare. From its 16th-century tower house origins to its elegant 18th-century Georgian design inspired by Chevening House, discover the rise, legacy, and endurance of the Ievers family — who still call it home today. A short, atmospheric journey through time, architecture, and Irish heritage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, artist and writer Bernice Cooke journeys to Mooghaun Hillfort in County Clare — one of Ireland’s largest Bronze Age fortresses. Hidden on the grounds of Dromoland Castle, this vast site once ruled a thriving chiefdom and later revealed a legendary hoard of Bronze Age gold. Discover its sacred spaces, concentric stone walls, and the echoes of ancient families who shaped Clare’s prehistoric landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this short and captivating episode of Whispering Stones, artist and storyteller Bernice Cooke journeys to Magh Adhair, County Clare — the legendary inauguration site of the Kings of Thomond and Brian Boru’s royal ancestors.Explore the folklore, archaeology, and power struggles that shaped this sacred landscape — from Bronze Age roots to medieval ceremonies.Uncover tales of cursing stones, royal rivalries, and ancient rituals that whisper through Ireland’s timeless soil. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the haunting world of Leamaneh Castle in County Clare, Ireland. Once the stronghold of the powerful O’Briens, this 15th-century fortress is steeped in folklore, rebellion, and chilling ghost stories. At its heart lies the infamous Máire Rua—Red Mary—whose fiery legacy of wealth, power, and cruelty still whispers through the ruins. Was she a ruthless murderer, a cunning survivor, or simply a victim of legend? Join artist and writer Bernice Cooke as she unravels the history and myths surrounding Leamaneh Castle on this episode of Whispering Stones. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, host Bernice Cooke takes you to Killone Abbey, a hauntingly beautiful ruin on the shores of Killone Lake in County Clare, Ireland. Founded in the 12th century by Donal Mór O’Brien, this Augustinian nunnery holds stories of royal abbesses, ghostly corpse lights, healing holy wells, and even a captured mermaid who cursed the O’Brien Clan. Step inside the cloisters, uncover medieval secrets, and wander through folklore where history and myth intertwine. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, haunted places, and Celtic legends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step back in time to the historic village of Killinaboy in County Clare, Ireland. In this episode of Whispering Stones, host Bernice Cooke uncovers the secrets of a ruined medieval church, mysterious Sheela-na-Gig carvings, a rare Tau Cross, and traces of an ancient monastery. From O’Brien clan feuds to Cromwellian destruction, discover how this small Burren village became home to some of Ireland’s most fascinating medieval monuments. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step back in time with Whispering Stones as we explore the historic town of Killaloe, County Clare. Once the seat of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland, Killaloe was the medieval capital of Ireland and remains steeped in legend, from Viking clashes on the River Shannon to the stunning St. Flannan’s Cathedral. Discover ancient forts, medieval bridges, monastic settlements, and a town where Irish history truly comes alive. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, castles, cathedrals, and riverside charm. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 In this episode of Whispering Stones, host and storyteller Bernice Cooke takes you to Kilfenora, a small but mighty town in County Clare, Ireland. Known as the “City of the Crosses,” Kilfenora holds a rich history of medieval cathedrals, high crosses, legendary fairs, and even a unique connection to the Pope himself. Discover Saint Fachanan’s 6th-century church, the turbulent fires and rebuildings, the roofless cathedral ruins, and the music of the world-famous Kilfenora Céilí Band. Short, engaging, and steeped in Irish folklore and heritage—this is Kilfenora, where history whispers through stone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step back in time with Whispering Stones as host Bernice Cooke takes you across the waters of Lough Derg to Inis Cealtra, also known as Holy Island. Once a great center of monastic life, the island holds echoes of saints, Viking raids, ruined churches, high crosses, and centuries of pilgrimage.Discover the stories of St. Colum, St. Caimin, Brian Boru’s family, and the thousands of pilgrims who once circled this sacred isle. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, heritage, and hidden gems in County Clare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step off the beaten track along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way and discover Gleninagh Castle — an ivy-clad 16th-century tower house that once belonged to the powerful O’Loghlen clan. From clan battles and English conquest, to holy wells, ruined churches, and whispered legends of haunted caves, this episode of Whispering Stones uncovers the layered past of a forgotten corner of the Burren. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, host Bernice Cooke takes us on a stroll through Ennis, the historic capital of County Clare. Discover how the O’Brien dynasty, Franciscan friars, and centuries of trade shaped this vibrant market town. From medieval laneways to lively music sessions, Ennis is a place where history, culture, and community intertwine. Perfect for history lovers, travelers planning a trip to Ireland, or anyone curious about Clare’s fascinating past. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whispering Stones, we delve into the fascinating history of Dysert O’Dea in County Clare. From its role as a powerful O’Dea stronghold to the site of the epic Battle of Dysert O’Dea, we explore the stories of this ancient fortress, the family that fought to protect it, and the remarkable landmarks that surround it. Hear about the rich history of Dysert O'Dea Castle, its rise and fall under various owners, and the role it played in Ireland's turbulent past. Also, learn about the nearby St. Tola's Monastery, with its high cross, round tower, and centuries-old pilgrimage sites. Discover how this region, home to a fascinating archaeological trail, still whispers tales of its storied past. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the Rich History of Dromoland Castle – Once a stronghold for the O’Brien family, descendants of Brian Boru, Dromoland Castle in County Clare is now a luxurious 5-star hotel. In this episode, we dive into its fascinating past, from its role as a royal fortress to its architectural transformation by the Pain brothers in the 1800s. Discover the stories behind famous guests like John Lennon, George W. Bush, and Muhammad Ali, and learn how the castle survived both political upheaval and financial struggles. Tune in for a captivating journey through one of Ireland's most iconic landmarks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Synopsis: Join us in this episode of Whispering Stones as we uncover the fascinating story of Danganbrack Castle, an early 17th-century tower house built by the MacNamara family in County Clare. From its connection to the River Rine to its slow decay over centuries, we’ll explore the castle’s rich history and its transformation from a fortified residence to a forgotten ruin. Tune in to discover how this once-grand structure is now a silent sentinel, hidden beneath ivy and time. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the haunting beauty and turbulent history of Corcomroe Abbey in County Clare. From its mysterious 13th-century founding and exquisite stone carvings to kings buried in silence and whispered legends of murdered masons—this episode uncovers the secrets behind one of Ireland's most captivating medieval ruins. Learn how this once-thriving Cistercian monastery fell to decline, power struggles, and finally ruin. Perfect for fans of Irish history, ruined abbeys, medieval legends, and off-the-beaten-path travel in Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Uncover the rich and dramatic history of Carrigaholt Castle, a protected 15th-century tower house in County Clare, Ireland. Once home to Gaelic chieftains, rebel lords, and Wild Geese, this coastal fortress saw sieges, exiles, and political upheaval. Though the castle is safeguarded by the Office of Public Works and National Monuments, the lands surrounding it were listed for sale in 2024. Join Whispering Stones for a vivid journey into Ireland’s defiant past — in a place where stone remembers everything. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step inside the haunted history of Carnelly House, County Clare’s earliest Georgian estate. Designed by famed architect Francis Bindon, this red-brick beauty holds centuries of secrets: burned abbeys, Napoleonic treasures, and a chilling family curse. Join Whispering Stones as we explore the Stamer family legacy, mysterious architecture, and the ghost said to walk the tree-lined driveway. A short, fascinating look at one of Ireland’s most intriguing forgotten homes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the haunting ruins of Canon Island Abbey in County Clare, once a thriving Augustinian priory on the waters where the River Shannon meets the Fergus. In this short, engaging episode of Whispering Stones, uncover the rise and fall of this isolated medieval monastery, the mystery of its destruction, and the enduring echoes of a sacred past. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tucked into the cliffs of County Clare lies Cahercommaun, a massive 9th-century stone fort with roots stretching far deeper into prehistory. In this episode of Whispering Stones, we explore the story behind its concentric stone walls, ancient souterrains, and the artefacts that hint at wool production, ritual power, and a forgotten chiefdom.From Iron Age tools to cliffside defense, Cahercommaun offers a rare look at life—and mystery—on the Burren's edge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step inside Ireland's most storied stronghold—Bunratty Castle, County Clare.From its Viking roots and Norman invasions to its role in the Confederate Wars and a haunting unsolved 1984 murder, this episode explores the true history, legends, and mysteries behind this medieval masterpiece. Perfect for lovers of Irish history, folklore, castles, and cold cases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the fascinating legacy of Cornelius O’Brien, the 19th-century Irish MP who shaped the landscape of Liscannor and the Cliffs of Moher. In this episode of Whispering Stones, we uncover the story behind Birchfield House, the iconic O’Brien’s Tower — the first structure built for visitors at the Cliffs — and a network of schools, bridges, harbours, and legends scattered across County Clare. Through stone, politics, and folklore, Cornelius left behind a mark as enduring as the cliffs themselves. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the historic site of Beál Boru near Killaloe, County Clare, a mysterious ringfort that once stood at the heart of ancient Irish power. In this bite-sized episode, we trace the legend of Brian Boru, Ireland’s most famous High King, and uncover the secrets of his possible birthplace on the banks of the River Shannon. From Stone Age tools to Viking resistance, and from Norman invasions to royal bloodlines that echo into modern times, this episode blends archaeology, folklore, and fast-paced history.Perfect for fans of Irish history, ancient monuments, and stories of medieval Ireland. Short, sharp, and unforgettable. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Explore the fascinating history of Ballynalacken Castle, a hidden gem in County Clare, Ireland, perched on the edge of the Burren region. In this bite-sized episode, uncover the layered story of a 15th-century tower house, the powerful O’Brien dynasty, and how this once-fortified structure became the elegant Ballinalacken Castle Hotel. Learn about medieval Irish clans, Cromwellian land seizures, and rare architectural features like machicolations and Tudor chimneys. Ideal for fans of Irish castles, haunted ruins, and off-the-beaten-path travel history. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the remote limestone landscape of the Burren in County Clare, Ireland, where the ancient stone fort of Ballykinvarga hides in plain sight. In this short but fascinating episode, we explore the unique architecture, mysterious chevaux-de-frise defenses, and the possible legacy of a medieval “cattle baron.” With massive dry-stone walls, rare upright stone barricades, and a history dating back over 1,000 years, Ballykinvarga is one of Ireland’s least-known archaeological treasures.Perfect for fans of Irish history, archaeology, and hidden heritage sites, this episode of Whispering Stones delivers a bite-sized glimpse into the ancient past of rural Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.