Fancy a journey back in time, to a land once ruled by kings, where ancient bogs whisper tales of bygone eras and a warm welcome awaits at every turn?
We’re talking about County Offaly, a place often overlooked in the grand tapestry of Irish tourism, yet brimming with a rich history, captivating landscapes, and a distinctive charm all its own.
But did you know this unassuming county once bore a much grander title? Let’s peel back the layers and discover the fascinating story of Offaly, the county formerly known as King’s County.
King’s County No More: A Name Change and a Royal Legacy
What is King’s County, Ireland now called? Drumroll please… it’s now known as County Offaly! The name change, alongside Queen’s County becoming County Laois, and King’s County becoming County Offaly, occurred after the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922. It was a symbolic shedding of colonial ties and a reclamation of ancient Irish heritage.
Why is Offaly called Kings? This is a common misconception! Offaly was not called Kings because of ancient Irish kings. Instead, King’s County was named after King Philip II of Spain, the husband of Queen Mary I of England, during the Tudor plantations of the 16th century. It was part of a broader effort to assert English control over the Irish midlands. The county town, Daingean, was even renamed Philipstown in his honour (it reverted to Daingean later). So, the “King” in King’s County referred to a foreign monarch, not the Gaelic kings who once held sway over the region.
What is the old name for Offaly? As we’ve established, the old name for Offaly was King’s County.
What do they call Offaly? Today, it’s simply “Offaly,” though locals might affectionately refer to it by its various nicknames, like “The Faithful County” (often heard in a sporting context, particularly Gaelic Games) or simply “Offaly.”
Beyond the Name: Unveiling Offaly’s Identity
So, we’ve settled the name game. But what exactly is Offaly, and what makes it special?
Where is Offaly in Ireland on a Map?
If you’re wondering where is Offaly in Ireland on a map, picture the very heart of the Emerald Isle. Offaly is nestled in the Irish midlands, part of the province of Leinster. It’s bordered by counties Westmeath, Meath, Kildare, Laois, Tipperary, Galway, and Roscommon. Its central location makes it surprisingly accessible, yet it retains a wonderfully unspoiled feel.
Tullamore: The Heartbeat of Offaly
When you think of Offaly, one town often springs to mind: Tullamore. Where is Tullamore in Ireland map? You’ll find it right in the centre of the county, serving as the county town and a bustling hub of activity. Tullamore is famous for its rich history, its connection to the Grand Canal, and, of course, the world-renowned Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey. A visit to the Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre is a must for any whiskey enthusiast, offering a fascinating glimpse into the distillation process and a taste of its golden spirit.
What is Offaly famous for?
Beyond its royal past and whiskey heritage, Offaly is renowned for several unique features:
- Bord na Móna and the Boglands: Much of Offaly’s landscape is dominated by vast, ancient bogs, particularly the Bog of Allen. These unique ecosystems are not only vital for biodiversity but have also played a crucial role in Ireland’s industrial history through Bord na Móna, which harvested peat for fuel. Today, efforts are underway to rewet and restore these bogs, transforming them into incredible carbon sinks and wildlife habitats.
- Clonmacnoise: One of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites, Clonmacnoise is a stunning monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. Its round towers, ancient churches, and intricately carved high crosses are a powerful testament to Ireland’s spiritual heritage and attract visitors from all over the world.
- Birr Castle Demesne: This magnificent estate is home to the Parsons family and boasts stunning gardens, a fascinating science centre, and the historic “Great Telescope” (the Leviathan of Parsonstown), once the largest telescope in the world. It’s a truly spectacular place to explore.
- The Grand Canal: This historic waterway meanders through Offaly, offering picturesque walking and cycling routes, and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
Offaly’s People: Surnames and Spirit
Just like any Irish county, Offaly has its own distinct identity, often reflected in its people and their names. If you’re tracing your family tree and wondering about County Offaly surnames, you’ll find a prevalence of names with long-standing roots in the midlands. Common names include Molloy, Dunne, Egan, Scully, and Farrell, among many others. These names often speak to ancient Gaelic clans who once held sway in the region.
The Kingdom and the Queen’s County: A Quick Detour
While we’re on the subject of royal county names, let’s address a couple of other frequently asked questions:
What county in Ireland is known as the Kingdom? This is easy! County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland, is famously known as “The Kingdom.” Its stunning landscapes, from the Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula, certainly live up to the majestic moniker.
Why is Laois called The Queen’s County? Similar to King’s County, Laois was named Queen’s County after Queen Mary I of England, again, during the Tudor plantations. Its county town, Portlaoise, was originally named Maryborough.
Kings of the Past: A Glimpse at Ireland’s Monarchs
What were Irish kings called? Before the arrival of the Normans and later the English, Ireland was a patchwork of petty kingdoms, ruled by Gaelic kings or chieftains. These kings were often referred to as “Rí” (king) in Irish, followed by the name of their kingdom or clan, e.g., Rí Uí Failghe (King of Uí Failghe, the ancient territory that largely corresponds to modern Offaly). There were also more powerful regional kings, and occasionally a “High King of Ireland” (Ard Rí Éirinn), though the power of the High King varied greatly throughout history.
When did Ireland stop having kings? The concept of a unified “King of Ireland” in the traditional Gaelic sense faded with the increasing assertiveness of English rule. The last claimant to the High Kingship, Rory O’Connor, died in 1198. While Gaelic lords continued to hold power and maintain their royal lineages in various parts of Ireland for centuries, their authority gradually eroded under English expansion. By the end of the 17th century, with the defeat of the Gaelic order, the era of indigenous Irish kings effectively came to an end.
Offaly in Numbers and Names
How many towns in Offaly? Offaly has several towns and numerous villages, each with its own character. Beyond Tullamore and Birr, other notable towns include Edenderry, Clara, and Daingean (the former Philipstown). The county boasts a lovely mix of urban centres and tranquil rural landscapes.
And for those who appreciate the original Irish:
The counties of Ireland in Irish:
- Contae Átha Cliath (County Dublin)
- Contae Chill Mhantáin (County Wicklow)
- Contae Chill Dara (County Kildare)
- Contae Laoise (County Laois)
- Contae Uíbh Fhailí (County Offaly) – our star!
- …and so on for all 32 counties!
Counties in Leinster in Irish: Leinster, the province Offaly calls home, comprises twelve counties. Here are a few in Irish:
- Contae Cheatharlach (County Carlow)
- Contae Chill Chainnigh (County Kilkenny)
- Contae na hIarmhí (County Westmeath)
- Contae an Longfoirt (County Longford)
- Contae Loch Garman (County Wexford)
- Contae Lú (County Louth)
- Contae na Mí (County Meath)
- Contae Port Láirge (County Waterford – while sometimes associated with Munster, historically part of the Lordship of Leinster)
What does Offaly mean in Irish? The name “Offaly” (Uíbh Fhailí in Irish) derives from the ancient Irish kingdom of Uí Failghe, meaning “descendants of Failghe.” Failghe was a legendary ancestor, giving the territory its ancient and honourable name long before any English king lent his title.
Conclusion: Offaly – A Royal Past, a Vibrant Present
From King’s County to Offaly, this central Irish gem has shed its colonial skin to re-embrace its authentic heritage. It’s a county where history is etched into every bog and ancient stone, where the whiskey flows freely, and the welcome is as warm as a peat fire. So, next time you’re planning an Irish adventure, don’t just pass through the midlands. Stop, explore, and uncork the hidden delights of Offaly – a county with a truly royal past and a vibrant, authentic Irish heart.
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