Introduction to Westmeath
County Westmeath (Irish: Contae na hIarmhí) is a county situated in the Irish Midlands, also popularly called the "Lake county" and the "great county" in the western part of the province of Leinster. Area: 1,764 km_.
A Brief History of Westmeath
The county was once part of the ancient province of Meath and later of County Meath, this association was ended in 1543 when County Westmeath was created under the Counties of Meath and Westmeath Act.
Areas of Interest in Westmeath
Moydrum Castle
Moydrum Castle is a fine example of the mock-castle, a style beloved by the Gothic Revival school of Francis Johnston, the Morrisons and others in the early years of the 19th century. The original Irish name for the locality was Moidrome - Magh Droma, "plain of the ridge". The Handcocks obtained a grant of 5,500 acres in 1680, which formed the Manor of Twyford, and they continued as large land and property owners in Athlone until the 20th century.
Cathedral Of Christ The King
The Cathedral of Christ the King was opened in 1936. It is Basilican in form with twin towers and a dome. The style is modernised Renaissance.
The museum is situated within the Cathedral building, above the Sacristy, the entrance being at the right side of the building. It contains many artefacts of historical interest and models of church buildings in the Mullingar area from the 17th century to the present.
Athlone Crystal
Athlone Crystal houses a unique collection of high quality hand-cut full lead crystal items. There are free factory tours showing crystal designing and cutting.
Belvedere House Gardens & Park
The Estate comprises of 160 acres of parkland with 6kms of magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks, including the NARNIA Trail. Several follies adorn the landscape including Ireland's largest folly - The Jealous Wall. The restored Belvedere House is an 18th century hunting/fishing lodge designed by the renowned German architect Richard Castle for Robert Rochfort, later the 1st Earl of Belvedere. A fascinating Walled Garden, designed by Ninian Nevin in 1857, contains one of Ireland's finest collections of rare and special plants. The Stable Block is home to a modern Visitor Centre with multi-media show, exhibitions and fully licensed Cafe. Adjacent to the Visitor Centre are two Children's Play Area. There is also a delightful tram, which provides guided tours around a section of the parkland on selected days throughout the year.
Traditional Music and Craic in Westmeath