Ardagh (Irish: Ardach)[1] is a village and civil parish in County Limerick, Ireland. The village is situated on the R523 regional road. The nearest town is Newcastle West, about three miles away, on the R521 road to Foynes and Shanagolden. Primary level educational for the village and its surroundings is provided by St Molua's National School. The parish is bounded to the west by Athea, to the north by the parish of Coolcappa, to the east Rathkeale and to the south by Newcastle West. The local GAA team is known as St. Kierans, a club which represents both the parish of Ardagh-Carrigkerry as well as Coolcappagh-Kilcolman.

Ardagh Ardach
Village
St. Molua's Roman Catholic church in Ardagh
Ardagh Location in Ireland
Coordinates: 52.49412°N 9.06372°W / 52.49412; -9.06372
Country	Ireland
Province	Munster
County	County Limerick
Dáil Éireann	Limerick County
Eircode routing key	V42
Dialling code	069

History and archaeology

On 5 March 1867, in the Fenian Rising, an unsuccessful attempt was made by local Fenian supporters to capture the local Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) barracks. The attack was led by local carpenter William Upton. Many of the Fenians were subsequently arrested, though Upton himself eventually escaped to America.[2]

In 1868, the Ardagh Hoard including the 8th century Ardagh Chalice, was found in Reerasta Rath near Ardagh. The chalice is held in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin.[3]

Tourism

The Great Southern Trail, a 53-mile (85 km) stretch of countryside in West Limerick/North Kerry, runs through Ardagh as it follows the route of the former Limerick-Tralee railway line (which opened in 1867/1880 and closed in 1975/1977).[4] Bathrooms, picnic tables, and a seasonal food truck are available at the restored Ardagh Station House.[5]

People

• William Smith O'Brien, Irish nationalist Member of Parliament (MP) and leader of the Young Ireland movement, had his residence in Cahermoyle House which is a mile from Ardagh village.[6]

References