10 Interesting Facts About Limerick
Limerick is the third largest city and one of the oldest in Ireland. It’s a vibrant, exciting city, lying on the River Shannon and home to many historic landmarks such as King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral. But what else do you know about this fantastic city? Read on to find out our 10 most interesting facts about Limerick!
1. Foynes
The world-famous Irish Coffee was first made back in the 1940’s in the small port village of Foynes, Limerick. This tasty brew consisting of hot coffee, a measure of Irish whiskey and a topping of cream was invented by chef Joe Sheridan, who was working in a restaurant catering for guests into Foynes Airport. In those days Foynes was one of Europe’s biggest airports with US travellers regularly flying in and out each day. It was US travel writer, Stanton Delaplane who is responsible for the global success of the Irish Coffee. He loved the coffee so much that when he returned to the States, he started to spread the word amongst friends, one being the owner of Buena Vista. And as they say, the rest is history.
2. The Famed Limerick Lace
Limerick Lace is considered to be one of Limerick’s most famous exports and one of Ireland’s most famous art industries. Limerick Lace was brought to Limerick in 1829, by English businessman Charles Walker, who brought 24 ladies from Nottingham to teach the skilful craft to the women of Limerick.
3. Limerick goes Stateside
Limerick isn’t just restricted to Ireland. They do it bigger in the states, which is why there is 10 other Limericks in the USA. They are spread out across Illinois, Louisville, Georgia, Maine, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Ohio, New York and South Carolina.
4. King John’s Castle
King John’s Castle, located at the heart of medieval Limerick City, represents the most western castle in Europe. The castle is one of the best-preserved Norman castles across Europe, dating back to 1200 and was built by King John himself. Today you can step inside the walls of Limerick’s most famous landmark and discover 800 years of dramatic local history.
5. The Living Bridge
Limerick is home to the longest footbridge in Ireland and it is also one of the longest across Europe. Located on the campus of the University of Ireland, this 350m footbridge was finished in 2007 and spans across the River Shannon, connecting the university grounds on either side of the river. If you would like to take a walk across the bridge. The reasoning behind the bridge was to create a new ‘living’ link between the older campus buildings to the south of the River Shannon and the newer area north of the river in Clare. Hence, baring the name the Living Bridge.
6. Thomond Park
Tuesday the 31st of October 1978 will long live in the memories of many rugby fans who were around to witness this historical day. This of course was the first time in history an Irish team had beaten New Zealand in rugby. The team to achieve this impressive feat was Munster, and the game took place in Limerick’s very own Thomond Park. 12,000 fans gathered in the stadium to see Munster beat the All Blacks 12-0, placing their names in the history books.
7. Playing a Part in American History
Thomas Fitzgerald was a born and bred Limerick man from Bruff. You may be asking yourself, who is Thomas Fitzgerald? He is in fact the great grandfather to the 35th President of the USA, John F Kennedy. Its from Fitzgerald where the ‘F’ in JFK originates from.
8. The Treaty City
Limerick, also known as the Treaty City, after the Treaty of Limerick was signed on the 3rd of October 1691 at the end of the war between William Orange and his father-in-law King James II. The treaty was signed by sides of both armies and can today be viewed at the Clare end of Thomond Bridge.
9. Limerick Chronicle
Limerick can also claim to have one of the oldest, continuously published newspapers in the world. The Limerick Chronicle was first set up in 1768 by John Ferrar, a Limerickman who was a known bookseller and printer in the city. The first issue of the very first collection went missing over time, however, the rest of the collection is now held at the University of Limerick.
10. Famous Irish Figures
The Treaty City has been the birthplace of many famous Irish figures over time. Michael D Higgins, the 9th President of Ireland was born in Limerick. The master broadcaster Terry Wogan was also a Limerickman. Other famous figures include famous band The Cranberries, and of course Pulitzer prize winning author Frank McCourt who was responsible for delivering us the classic Angela’s Ashes. McCourt spent his early years growing up around Barrack Hill. South’s Pub which was just around the corner, was a popular spot for a drink for his father.
Your Perfect Base in Limerick
Maldron Hotel Limerick is the ideal base while exploring the vibrant city of Limerick. We are minutes away from the city centre and many of it's most popular attractions. After you are done exploring unwind in our state of the art Club Vitae Leisure Centre offering full leisure facilities, including a 20m swimming pool.
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