‘You Think You Know About The Blarney Stone’

By John J. Ruppert

With Saint Patrick’s Day upon us talk always turns to the folklore behind The Blarney Stone. There has been as many stories behind it’s origin as there has been in it’s meaning. One thing is certain, The Blarney Stone is one of the world’s most celebrated tourists attractions welcoming millions of visitors and their puckered up lips.

One of the more popular legends tells of rewarding each kisser with the gift of gab, eloquence or skill of flattery. Each year Ireland bares witness to all those who have come in search of such rewards or other powers The Blarney Stone may have to offer.

The Blarney Stone is located in the village of Blarney in Ireland. It is a block of bluestone that’s been built right into the battlements of Blarney Castle. To kiss the stone one must sit with their back towards the stone while someone else holds your feet. You then must lean far backward and downward into the abyss while grabbing the iron rails, you lower yourself until your head is even with the stone enough to kiss it.
So the next time someone asks you if you know about The Blarney Stone you can say yes… but do you really know? The only way to find out is to go to the village of Blarney and see it for yourself face to face or in this case Stone to Lips.