A tragic chapter in history
Adjacent to the Scared Heart church in Irvinestown, you’ll discover the Famine Memorial by master carver Jonas Raiska from Lithuania. Whatever you know about the Great Famine of 1845 – 1852, you will be moved by this depiction of Ireland’s tragic period of history. The carved wooden statues have their own story to tell if you take the time to look closely.
The memorial really captures the anguish and despair of those affected by the Great Famine. Its weathered figures, etched with pain, tell the story of suffering and resilience. Every detail of the artist’s craftsmanship reflects the harrowing experience of starvation and loss. The history is also depicted in text around the walls of each little enclave.
A place for quiet reflection
Approaching the memorial you’re enveloped in the peaceful atmosphere here. A hushed silence creates a reverent space to contemplate the magnitude of the tragedy of the Great Famine. You can’t help but feel a connection to the past here and an overwhelming sadness from the echoes of hardship and endurance. You’ll come away feeling as if you’ve spent several hours travelling back to another time.
You won’t find many printed references to this site of interest. So, I urge you not to leave Fermanagh without paying a visit. This period of history is so important for us to know and understand.
The Garden of Celtic Saints
Opposite the Memorial to the Great Famine, you can walk through a gate into a little woodland of Celtic magic. This unexpected oasis pays homage to the rich spiritual heritage of the Celts, taking you on a journey through time and legend.
Majestic stone sculptures depicting ancient Celtic saints stand tall, each statue meticulously crafted, revealing the intricate details of flowing robes, bearded faces, and delicate hands clasping ancient manuscripts, with additional texts to offer deeper understanding. Tucked away in hidden corners, you stumble upon ancient stone crosses adorned with intricate Celtic knotwork, a testament to very skilled craftsmanship.
The Garden of Celtic Saints not only celebrates the past but also invites visitors to engage with their own spirituality. Meditation nooks and quiet seating areas offer a serene space for reflection and introspection, encouraging a connection with the natural world and the inner self.
These two incredible sites are just a few minutes’ drive from Rossclare Lodge and I encourage all of our guests to pay a visit.
If you would like to book your room and see this hidden gem yourself, book HERE now.
For more information about things to see and do in Fermanagh visit Fermanagh Lakelands Tourism
