Mass Rock, Cahirkeem, County Cork, Ireland

At the end of the seventeenth century the Irish were deprived of their political and civil rights, including the right to educate their children, the right to own property, the right to vote, and the right to practice religion. This desperate period was referred to as the Penal Times. Learn about how the people of the Beara Peninsula secretly continued to meet and worship in the rugged hills despite the danger.

Please join me, artist and writer Susanne Iles, as I travel around the most captivating place in Ireland. Today's trip to the Beara Peninsula takes us to the Mass Rock in the hills near Cahirkeem, County Cork, Ireland.

On the Road to the Mass Rock in Cahirkeem

Up the hill and around the corner from the Lady of Lourdes Grotto in Cahirkeem, the landscape unfolds into a beautiful sight. The rugged terrain meets an extraordinarily blue sea, anchored by a hill dotted with lush, green farmland. Just up ahead is an unassuming lay by with a very interesting past. Slow down or you just might miss it!

A Winding Path

Across the road from the lay by is a hill known as Cnocan an Aifrinn. (The hillock of the Mass) Upon careful inspection stone steps can be seen rising up to an age old, well worn path.

Penal Times

At the end of the seventeenth century the Irish were deprived of their political and civil rights, including the right to educate their children, the right to own property, the right to vote, and the right to practice religion. This desperate period was referred to as the Penal Times. It was dangerous to worship in public places, so isolated areas were sought out for clandestine masses.
The altar used for the ceremonies was known as a Mass Rock.

Mass Rock

Climbing the hill one can almost feel the trepidation that must have accompanied the worshipers in days gone by. The scenic view is gorgeous and reveals the dichotomy of the place. Such immense beauty is laid out before one's eyes to be appreciated, but also to be scanned with a wary eye for those who would punish the prayerful. The winding path continues to weave upwards until a large, flat rock appears. A handsome stone cross marks the place where the mass would have been said in whispers.

The Ring of Beara Blog

Living in the beautiful Beara Peninsula, County Cork, Ireland

The Most Captivating Place in Ireland
The Beara Peninsula, otherwise known as the Ring of Beara, is a place where ancient landscapes and changing skies welcome the passionate traveler. Discover mysterious stone circles, wedge tombs and standing stones. Explore wild beaches and rolling hills. Enjoy the music, great conversation, and company of friendly people in colourful towns. The Beara Peninsula holds the spirit of Ireland within its rugged beauty.

SusanneIles.Com Blog

Reconnecting Our Natural World With The Divine

Current news and information about Susanne and her art studio in Castletownbere, County Cork, Ireland.

Join Me on Twitter

Please follow me, Susanne Iles, on Twitter for updates on my travels around the Beara Peninsula, as well as for news about what's happening in the Bone Singer Studio.

May 27, 2012 @ 11:10 am

@DesertBus I have a painting to donate to the 2012 auction. To early to send? (I messaged you on FB with details :) )
May 8, 2012 @ 12:15 pm

Taking jobs you don't like bec you think it will look good on your resume is like saving up sex for old age- Buffett http://t.co/WN3ttyAc
Mar 25, 2012 @ 1:13 pm

Blood Sweat and Tea..loved reading these books http://t.co/vzQ615jv Thank you! @reynolds !
Mar 25, 2012 @ 1:05 pm

Interview with the Thin Gypsy Thief, Steampunk Artist, Kyle Miller http://t.co/4oa3fpwc #steampunk
Mar 25, 2012 @ 12:54 pm

Just in time for Spring! Plant Myths http://t.co/jFiEw0sZ #myth #garden #art