Murroe, Co. Limerick

Glenstal Abbey is in the town of Murroe. 

It is in many ways a typical, small Irish town. Memories of the Irish War of Independence can be found in several places. In the center of town is a cross commemorating those who gave their lives during the war.

Because they were seen as martyrs, they were buried just outside the local church, in the area usually reserved for priests.

Clonmacnois

I spent a couple of days with Gerry and Assumpta Burke, enjoying their hospitality and Ailish's cookies. Gerry drove me around to see some of the places our ancestors came from, and try to connect with some.

On the way back to Glenstal Abbey, we stopped at Clonmacnois, an important early Christian site in Co. Offaly, overlooking the Shannon. 

The site has two round towers and several high crosses. The original high crosses have been moved inside for preservation, and replaced with castings.