Kenmare

Kenmare (Irish: An Neidín) is a small town (pop. 1844 - CSO 2002) in the south of County Kerry, Ireland. The Irish name for the town 'An Neidín' translates into the English 'The Little Nest'.

Related Topics:
Irish - CSO - County Kerry - Ireland

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Kenmare lies on 2 of the more famous Irish tourist attractions, namely the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara, approximately 22 miles (38 km) from Killarney.

Related Topics:
Ring of Kerry - Ring of Beara - Killarney

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The modern town was laid out in circa 1670 by the English nobleman, Sir William Petty 1st Marquis of Lansdowne. The three main streets that form a triangle in the centre of the town are called Main Street (originally William Street, after the Marquis), Henry Street (after the son of William) and Shelbourne Street, which was named after the Earl of Shelbourne.

Related Topics:
1670 - English - Sir William Petty - Earl of Shelbourne

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However, the area has more ancient roots. There is one of the biggest stone circles in Ireland very close to the town, showing occupation by Celtic peoples long before English occupation.

Related Topics:
Stone circle - Celt

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Vikings are said to have raided the area and named it the 'Head of the Sea'. This translates into the Irish Ceann Mara and was corrupted by the English into the modern day name of Kenmare.

Related Topics:
Vikings - Irish

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The town is noted for its lace work, introduced by the Poor Clare Sisters, and for receiving Ireland's tidiest town award in 2000.

Related Topics:
Lace - Poor Clare Sisters - 2000

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