Maynooth —County Kildare

Maynooth is an attractive 18th century 'planned town'. At one end of the town is Carton House, which is presently being developed into a Country Club and a Championship Golf Course. At the other end of the town is Maynooth Castle and Maynooth College. The recently renovated Maynooth Castle served as the stronghold for the Fitzgerald's of Kildare for centuries. The castle was finally destroyed during the rebellion in the 1640's. St. Patrick's College, Maynooth was founded in 1795. The College, which is Ireland's largest seminary, has trained thousand of priests over the years. The history of the college is explained fully through exhibitions at the visitor Centre and Museum. Also at the College is the very impressive chapel and gardens - definitely worth a visit!!