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Limerick History

Limerick history dates back to the times when Vikings were on the pillage in the area. They took over Limerick island in the 9th century as a base and built a permanent stronghold. As an island, Limerick was easy to defend and launch attacks on the main land. The Irish succeeded in taking over the island in the eleventh century. Fortunes of the island changed with the arrival of Norman in the 12th century. King John’s forces captured the island and built a castle there. The island and the castle are named after him. Limerick prospered under the Normans as a port. Limerick had a checkered history since then due to its strategic location. Many invading forces plundered and laid siege to the island. The famous Limerick treaty was signed between William III of Orange and the defeated Irish federation in 1691. The Act of Union and the great famine devastated Limerick and its inhabitants.

Limerick’s fortunes changed again for the better in the last century. In the era of flying boats, Foynes on the River Shannon estuary was a terminal. Later the Shannon airport was built by draining bogs in the area. Shannon airport gained prominence as a fuel stop over for flights between Europe and Americas. The establishment of the Limerick university attracted attention to the area. The University currently is estimated to have over 13,000 as full time students and faculty.

Limerick is one of Ireland major tourist destinations. The city is quaint with the old world charm mixed with modernity. Ancient architecture interspersed with modern buildings is really a sight to see. The oldest surviving historical edifice is the Cathedral of St. Mary. The cathedral was built in the 12th century by the Normans and still in everyday use. King John’s castle on the island was built on the island around the same time and survived despite the battles and sieges it was exposed to. The stone used as table to sign the Limerick treaty is displayed on a pedestal in the city. Limerick is about 20 kilometers from the Shannon International airport. The airport operates scheduled flights to destinations in United States and Europe. Cruise services are operated from Britain and France to Cork, a port close to Limerick. Car is the best option to get around in the city. There are huge numbers of car rental companies so you can easily hire a car in Limerick and for traveling to airport you can go for the car hire in Ireland

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