Kildare is among Ireland’s oldest towns with origins that can be traced as far back as pre-Christian times when it used to be the location of a shrine to Brigid, the Celtic Goddess. Later on, it became the location of the great Christian foundation of Saint Brigid. To this day, it serves as the home of numerous historic ruins and buildings that boast of the legacy of history that spans for 1,500 years.
The small town of Kildare can be found on the border of Curragh plains that is a mere 40-minute drive away from the Dublin Airport. But, don’t be fooled by its small size because it holds a rather large and rich history. Its old market house functions as the Failte Ireland Tourist Office and a Heritage Centre at the same time.
This is also the home to the immersive Virtual Reality Experience where visitors can learn about the interesting stories of Saint Brigid, Brigid the Goddess, Fianna, and the Normans’ arrival that make it the perfect starting point of your exploration of Kildare Town.
It is not a surprise that such an ancient cathedral town is filled with interesting history. One of the patron saints of Ireland, Saint Brigid, established a nunnery in the area during the 6th century. Today, a stunning 13th century cathedral with a 9th century round tower flanking it can be found on the original site of the nunnery.
The remnants of the castle of the once powerful Fitzgeralds, the popular Earls of Kildare, can be found in the town centre although only one of its three original towers is still standing tall today. A triangle of Abbeys, the White, the Grey, and the Black Abbeys, surround the castle and the cathedral. The word Kildare means The Church of the Oak Tree.
There are a lot of things to do and see in the town of Kildare. Topping the list is Saint Brigid’s Cathedral. As mentioned earlier, it was constructed on the very spot that used to be a home to Saint Brigid. It is a beautifully renovated Norman Cathedral was constructed with early gothic design. This was rebuilt between the years 1223 and 1230 and the Cathedral is where you can find the remnants of St. Brigid’s Firetemple.
The Round Tower is Ireland’s highest round tower that can be accessed by the public and is also the second tallest tower overall. The Kildare Round Tower is standing tall at little more than 107 feet or almost 33 meters and you can easily spot it as you come close to the town. The climb will definitely be worth it as it gives you panoramic views of County Kildare and beyond.
During the 13th century, there were three brand new religious foundations that were established around and in Kildare Town. They were locally known by the colour of the monk’s habits – Black, Grey, and White. All of these were dissolved during the era of Reformation, turning into ruins during 18th century.
Other sites that are worth the visit in Kildare Town include Saint Brigid’s Well, The Irish National Stud and Gardens, The Gordon Bennett Route and Classic Car Rally, and the Kildare Shopping Village.
