Why Do You Kiss the Blarney Stone Upside down?: Uncover the Mystery

Kissing the Blarney Stone upside down is a tradition to gain the gift of eloquence. The stone is positioned in such a way that it requires bending backward for a kiss.

Kissing the Blarney Stone is one of Ireland’s most famous and intriguing tourist traditions. Located at Blarney Castle near Cork, the stone is thought to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. But here’s a question that often arises: why do visitors kiss the Blarney Stone upside down? Is there a specific reason behind this unusual positioning? In this post, we’ll explore the history, significance, and fun facts behind the tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone upside down, as well as provide helpful tips on how to make the most of your visit.

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What is the Blarney Stone?

The Blarney Stone is a block of limestone built into the walls of Blarney Castle in Ireland. It’s believed to give anyone who kisses it “the gift of eloquence” or the ability to speak confidently and persuasively. This is why you often hear the phrase “Blarney”, which refers to charming or flattering speech.

• Location: Blarney Castle, County Cork, Ireland.
• Stone type: Carboniferous limestone.
• Height: 85 feet above the ground.

Table: Quick Facts About the Blarney Stone

Feature	Details
Location	Blarney Castle, Cork, Ireland
Material	Limestone
Famous for	Granting “The Gift of the Gab”
Position	Built into the castle wall
Distance from ground	85 feet

How to Get to the Blarney Stone

The Blarney Stone is located at Blarney Castle in County Cork, Ireland, just a short distance from Cork City. Here’s how you can get there:

1. By Car:
   • From Cork City, drive about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest via the N20 road. The journey takes around 15–20 minutes.
   • Free parking is available near the castle grounds.
2. By Bus:
   • Take Bus 215 from Cork City Bus Station (Parnell Place) to Blarney Village. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes.
   • From the village, it’s a short walk to the castle entrance.
3. By Tour:
   • Many guided tours from Cork, Dublin, or Killarney include a visit to Blarney Castle and the stone.
4. By Taxi or Rideshare:
   • Taxis or apps like Uber are convenient for direct trips from Cork City to Blarney Castle.

Tip: Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The Tradition of Kissing the Blarney Stone

The tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone is thought to have originated centuries ago. According to legend, anyone who kisses the stone will be endowed with the gift of eloquence—meaning they will become persuasive and articulate speakers. Over the years, this tradition has become one of the main reasons people visit Blarney Castle, drawing visitors from all over the world who seek to improve their speaking abilities.

To kiss the stone, visitors must lean backward, hold onto iron railings, and stretch to kiss the stone. The unusual positioning is what has become part of the tradition, adding a bit of adventure and challenge to the experience.

Why Kiss the Stone Upside Down?

Kissing the Blarney Stone isn’t easy. The stone is located high up in the castle wall, making it impossible to kiss while standing or sitting. Here’s why you kiss it upside down:

1. Position of the Stone:
   The Blarney Stone is positioned in such a way that you need to lean backward over a gap to reach it. This requires you to lie down and tilt your head upside down.
2. Tradition:
   This unique position has become part of the experience. For centuries, visitors have followed the same upside-down ritual, adding to the charm and excitement of kissing the stone.
3. The Challenge:
   Leaning back over an open space can feel daring, especially since the stone is located 85 feet above the ground. It’s a small challenge, but many visitors say it’s worth it.
4. Historical Method:
   In the past, there were no safety rails, so people were held by their ankles to kiss the stone! This created the upside-down tradition, which has continued to this day.

How Do You Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Visiting the Blarney Stone is an adventure. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you kiss it the traditional way:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Climb the Castle:
   • You’ll need to climb narrow, winding stairs to the top of Blarney Castle. It’s about 127 steps, so be prepared for a bit of exercise.
2. Wait Your Turn:
   • The stone is popular, so you might have to wait in line. Use the time to take in the beautiful views of the surrounding gardens.
3. Lie Down:
   • When it’s your turn, a guide will help you lie down on your back. Your head and upper body will extend backward over a gap in the wall.
4. Hold the Railings:
   • There are now safety bars and railings to hold onto, so you’re completely safe.
5. Lean Back and Kiss:
   • Lean back, tilt your head upside down, and kiss the stone. The guide will assist you to ensure you’re comfortable.
6. Celebrate Your “Gift of Gab”:
   • Congratulations! You’ve just kissed the Blarney Stone. Don’t forget to take photos to remember the moment.

Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as climbing and leaning back can be tricky.

What Happens After You Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Many people believe that kissing the Blarney Stone gives them the gift of eloquence – the ability to speak confidently, persuasively, and charmingly.

• Some visitors say they feel more confident in social situations.
• Others see it as a fun tradition and a memorable experience.
• It’s a great story to share with friends and family.

Fun Fact: Winston Churchill, one of history’s greatest speakers, visited Blarney Castle. Some say the Blarney Stone helped him develop his famous speeches!

The History and Legend of the Blarney Stone

The history of the Blarney Stone is full of mystery and folklore. There are several stories about where it came from and why people kiss it upside down.

Legend 1: The Goddess Clíodhna

According to legend, Clíodhna, a goddess of Irish mythology, told Cormac Laidir MacCarthy (a builder of Blarney Castle) how to gain the gift of speech. She instructed him to kiss a special stone as part of a magical ritual. The stone became part of the castle, and people have kissed it ever since.

Legend 2: The Stone of Destiny

Another legend says the Blarney Stone is part of the Stone of Destiny (or Lia Fáil), a sacred stone used in ancient Ireland to crown kings. The stone supposedly gained its powers from its role in crowning rulers.

Legend 3: The Battle Gift

One story suggests the stone was given to Cormac MacCarthy by Robert the Bruce (King of Scotland) in the 14th century as a thank-you gift for support in battle. The stone was brought to Ireland and built into Blarney Castle.

Did You Know?
The word “Blarney” became popular because of Queen Elizabeth I. She described the speeches of the Macaroons as “Blarney, meaning clever but meaningless flattery.”

Myths and legends surrounding the Blarney Stone

Several myths and legends are associated with the Blarney Stone, adding to its mystique:

• The Curse of the Stone: One story suggests that anyone who fails to kiss the stone will be cursed with bad luck. However, there is no evidence to support this curse, and it’s likely just part of the legend.
• The Templar Connection: Some people believe the stone has mystical properties tied to the Knights Templar, further cementing its place as a magical and powerful relic.
• Magical Powers: In addition to granting eloquence, the Blarney Stone is sometimes said to offer wisdom, charm, and good fortune to those who kiss it.

Is It Really Necessary to Kiss the Stone Upside Down?

While the tradition of kissing the stone upside down is the most popular method, it’s not absolutely necessary. If you have physical limitations, or if leaning backward seems too daunting, you can still kiss the stone while standing upright. However, part of the fun is trying to follow the tradition as closely as possible, and many visitors feel a sense of accomplishment when they successfully kiss the stone upside down.

Best Time to Visit the Blarney Stone

The best time to visit Blarney Castle is during the spring and summer months (May through September), when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom. The castle can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it’s advisable to visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid long lines.

If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-season (October to April). While the weather can be cooler and rainier, the crowds are smaller.

and you’ll have more space to enjoy the castle and its grounds.

Kissing Tips for the Blarney Stone

Here are some helpful tips for kissing the Blarney Stone:

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The climb to the top of the castle is steep, so make sure you’re wearing sturdy and comfortable footwear.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush the experience. Take a moment to appreciate the history and beauty of the castle.
• Use the Rails for Support: The upside-down position can be challenging. Use the iron rails for support and balance when leaning back.
• Be Prepared for a Wait: The Blarney Stone is a popular tourist attraction, so be prepared for a bit of a wait, especially during peak seasons.

Fun Facts About the Blarney Stone

Here are some fun facts about the Blarney Stone:

• Blarney Castle’s Age: Blarney Castle was built in 1446, making it almost 600 years old.
• A popular tourist spot: Over 200,000 visitors kiss the Blarney Stone each year.
• Mythical Relic: Some people believe the stone has the ability to grant not only eloquence but also wisdom, charm, and good fortune.

Conclusion

Kissing the Blarney Stone upside down is an iconic and time-honored tradition that draws millions of visitors each year. While the origins of the practice may remain mysterious, the joy and sense of adventure that come with kissing the stone are undeniable. Whether you’re seeking eloquence, a new experience, or simply a fun moment, the Blarney Stone offers an unforgettable piece of Irish history and culture. So, the next time you find yourself in Ireland, don’t forget to visit Blarney Castle and take part in this whimsical tradition!