Day 5 : Into the loins of Ireland (by Mary)

[Written by mary, edited and published by brian]

Last night the storm of the century slammed (Ireland, including) Athlone, the wind was so fierce that it woke us up at 3 in the morning (and prevented any real sleep the rest of the night). The morning was still windy and very cold, so much so, that on our jaunt to mass we were (repeatedly) almost blown over. But, no little wind can deter us, so off to Mass at the beautiful Sts. Peter and Paul, and Cookie, I lit that candle (as promised).  We still chuckle that the “early” mass is at 9:30 am (at the cathedral!);  just for a reference ours is 6:30 am.

So, after Mass, it’s off in the auto to Arigna Mining Experience. Arigna is a bit closer to Athlone than Dublin but a longer drive (Look for the Irish roads post coming soon).

Arigna, north we head for this one

By the way, 1 hour, 22 minutes my foot – thanks to Irish Roads.

At the Arigna Mining experience, we literally went (way) underground into the (inactive) coal mines.

The mine shut operation in 1992, and our Guide was very passionate about coal miners, was one himself, and had several first hand experiences to relay. (Brian here – seeing and hearing explanations on hand-hewn coal mining and shoring up the tunnels, etc. was fantastic).

Following the mine tour, we then proceeded to the town of Roscommon.

Cute town, very vibrant downtown, but our main purpose was to visit Sacred Heart Church, known for it’s beauty and the huge steeple that looms over the entire town. This has got to be one of the most gorgeous churches EVER. Unfortunately, someone didn’t check the camera battery, so all we have are phone photos, I can’t say how awe-inspiring this church was, lit another candle for Cookie.

We couldn’t imagine this tiny town with such a huge church, well the story goes, a Roscommon family made it rich in Argentina, and had paid for Sacred Heart to be built so their family members still in town would have a place to worship, and boy no expense was spared.

After that, the chauffeur was getting weary so back to lovely Athlone for our daily nap, Yes, we are old and need naps.