Killarney Town

Archaeological sites in Kerry date human habitation in the area going back 9,000 years, but the town of Killarney dates its founding in the 18th century.

Thomas Browne, 4th Viscount Kenmare, is noted on the town's web site as the founder of Killarney.  Over a period of approximately twenty five years he tried various methods to improve living conditions and establish the economy of the area.  His efforts don't seem to have been particularly successful, but he is credited with creating the road system that connected Killarney with more established towns like Tralee and Cork.  (You can read more about the history of the area on the town's web site here.)

Killarney today is the second largest town in County Kerry, with a population of just under 13,000.  The town's economy is based in tourism, with more than one third of the population working in that sector.

Downtown Killarney covers less than one square mile and can be covered in a one hour stroll.  There are a variety of shops and restaurants downtown, and the beautiful St. Mary's Cathedral on the edge of town.

The town rests on the edge of the 26,000 acre Killarney National Park (more about that soon).

You Tube videos here:

http://youtu.be/qHcT3K4nrcU

http://youtu.be/SA9SkyBvqDg