Oldest Pub in Ireland: Is it The Brazen Head or Sean’s Bar?
Both claiming to be Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head in Dublin and Sean’s Bar in Athlone have sparked a friendly rivalry among historians and pub enthusiasts.
In today’s email:
Oldest Pub in Ireland: Is it The Brazen Head or Sean’s Bar?
Dingle takes slight lead in prettiest village race
Have you hugged a gravestone in Glendalough?
Around the Web – Seaweed and Cocktails?, Hopes for a warm September, 500 Year Belfast Oak in running for Tree of the Year and more..
From Social Media
Irish Food You Will Love – Irish Butter
The Craic – Tap Dancer Lights up Irish Pub!
Both claiming to be Ireland’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head in Dublin and Sean’s Bar in Athlone have sparked a friendly rivalry among historians and pub enthusiasts.
With rich histories that stretch back centuries, these iconic establishments have become legendary symbols of Ireland’s pub culture. However, the question remains: Which one truly holds the title of Ireland’s oldest pub?
Let us embark on a journey through time and delve into the fascinating histories of The Brazen Head and Sean’s Bar, in an attempt to uncover the truth behind this spirited dispute. Nestled in the heart of Dublin,
The Brazen Head proudly proclaims itself as Ireland’s oldest pub, tracing its roots back to 1198. Situated on Lower Bridge Street, this venerable establishment has witnessed a remarkable timeline of events, surviving fires, invasions and countless generations of patrons.
Over the centuries, The Brazen Head has been a gathering place for rebels, poets and musicians, playing an integral role in Dublin’s cultural and political fabric.
Sean’s Bar, located in the town of Athlone, presents a compelling case as well. Officially certified by the Guinness World Records as the oldest pub in Ireland, Sean’s Bar has an astounding claim of establishment dating back to the year 900.
With over a millennium of continuous operation, this historic pub has attracted visitors from all walks of life including Vikings, soldiers and travelers. Its ancient walls exude an unmistakable aura of antiquity, transporting visitors to a bygone era.
So, how do we reconcile these two claims? The key lies in the interpretation of what constitutes a “pub” and the challenges of historical record-keeping.
While The Brazen Head may hold the title of the oldest pub building in Ireland with its structure dating back to the late 18th century, Sean’s Bar takes pride in its longstanding history of serving alcohol and acting as a communal gathering place. Historians have noted that The Brazen Head’s claim to being Ireland’s oldest pub refers specifically to the physical structure, whereas Sean’s Bar bases its claim on the continuous operation as a drinking establishment.
The evolving nature of Ireland’s pub culture and the transformation of buildings over time make it difficult to definitively declare one as the absolute oldest. Nonetheless, both The Brazen Head and Sean’s Bar have become cherished institutions, attracting locals and tourists alike. They offer unique experiences and a sense of connection to Ireland’s past, making them invaluable contributors to the country’s cultural heritage.
In the end, the dispute between The Brazen Head and Sean’s Bar is perhaps better enjoyed as a lighthearted rivalry, adding to the charm and mystique of these legendary establishments. Rather than focusing on a definitive winner, let us raise a glass and celebrate the longevity, character and cultural significance that both pubs embody.
So, whether you find yourself in the vibrant streets of Dublin or the historic town of Athlone, venture into these ancient establishments, immerse yourself in their stories and appreciate the rich tapestry of Ireland’s pub tradition. After all, the true magic of these pubs lies not in their age but in the vibrant memories and experiences they continue to create for generations to come.
Let’s see what our readers think. We decided to do a poll on this issue.
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The race of the Prettiest Village in Ireland is still on with Dingle in a very slight lead – You can still vote here: – We will declare and announce the Winner tomorrow.
Have you hugged a gravestone in Glendalough?
Glendalough is an idyllic area located in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland. The stunning natural beauty and rich history make it an ideal spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
When visiting Glendalough, there are a number of activities to enjoy. Tourists can take part in guided walks around the national park, which will provide an opportunity to explore the breathtaking scenery and learn more about the history of this area. There are also a number of trails suitable for hiking or bike rides, so visitors can tailor their trip to suit their individual needs.
One of the best ways to experience this amazing area is to combine the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough in a guided 1 day tour
The “Wicklow and Glendalough 1 Day Tour” takes participants on a captivating journey through the scenic Wicklow Mountains and the historic Monastic site of Glendalough, known as the residence of St. Kevin.
Commencing the tour in the early morning, travelers embark on a voyage up the Wicklow Mountains, making a stop at Roundwood, the highest village in Ireland.
After a short break for refreshments, the itinerary continues to Glendalough, where one can marvel at the picturesque landscapes, encompassing mountains and valleys, contributing to Wicklow’s moniker, “The Garden of Ireland.”
Additionally, the tour includes a visit to Hollywood before progressing to Kilkenny, where the splendid Kilkenny Castle awaits exploration, before concluding the excursion and returning home.
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From Social Media
Irish Food You Will Love
What makes Irish butter so special?
Are you the kind of person who hates ripped toast?
Cold, second-rate butter can make for a disappointing experience when trying to spread it onto your favorite slice of bread. But have you ever tried Irish butter?
This creamy treat is renowned for its superior flavor and texture that far surpasses regular American butter. That’s because European butter contains about 82 percent fat, while regular American brands contain only 80 percent.
The Craic
Tap Dancer Lights up Irish Pub!
Irish Pub Tap Dance is a traditional dance style that originated in Ireland and has been popularized around the world. It’s an upbeat, lively dance that incorporates both Irish step dancing and American tap dancing styles.
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Our Daily Newsletter is free and will remain free for our loyal followers forever.. ( if you are not subscribed then just enter your email below ) But as they say in the infomercials, that’s not all.. For less than the price of a pint at Temple Bar, you can upgrade to our premium Newsletter which will give you access to our archive of travel deep dives, travel itineraries as well as special deals curated for our premium subscribers. So consider buying us a pint and upgrade to get all the goodies.
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