SLANE CASTLE

From Atlas and Cyclopedia of Ireland (1900)

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Description of County Meath | Slane Castle | St. Peter and St. Paul Abbey | Trim Old Bridge | Meath Map

SLANE CASTLE.—This mansion is situated on a green bank overlooking the Boyne River, about seven miles from Drogheda. It dates from the beginning of the seventeenth century, and is the residence of the Marquis of Conyngham. It was a noted place as far back as the time of Hugo de Lacy, within whose "grant" it came. Close by it, are the romantic remains of the Hermitage of St. Erc, on the Hill of Slane, south of the town near the river, in the shade of a grove of ancient yew trees. St. Erc was the first bishop of Slane, and was consecrated by St. Patrick. It was on this historic spot that St. Patrick first lighted the paschal fire, and made his first remarkable conversions in the Island of which he became the apostle. A fine spring of water, called the Well of St. Patrick, is situated on the lower walk, near the Hermitage, and is much resorted to by the devout.

On this spot also are the ruins of an abbey consisting of a belfry and tower, which form one of the most picturesque objects in the demesne of Slane Castle.

Slane Castle

Slane Castle

Description of County Meath | Slane Castle | St. Peter and St. Paul Abbey | Trim Old Bridge | Meath Map

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