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Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial, Athlone Travel Guide

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A solemn tribute to the Athlone Brigade IRA, honoring their fight for Irish independence on Athlone's Custume Place. A place for reflection and remembrance.

The Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial stands in Athlone, County Westmeath, as a solemn tribute to the local members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) who fought for Irish independence during the War of Independence (1919-1921) and the subsequent Irish Civil War (1922-1923). The memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of Irish sovereignty.

A brief summary to Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial

  • Custume Pl, Athlone, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, IE
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial.

  • Take a moment to read the inscriptions on the memorial, which list the names of the local IRA members who died during the War of Independence and Civil War.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Athlone Castle, a historic landmark that played a significant role in the town's history.
  • Explore the scenic River Shannon, which flows close to the memorial, and enjoy a walk along its banks.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial is located on Custume Place, a short walk from the center of Athlone. From Athlone Castle, head south on Castle Street towards Church Street. Continue straight for about 300 meters until you reach the roundabout. Take the first exit onto the N61. Walk along this road for about 500 meters, and then turn left onto Custume Place. The Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial will be on your right after a short walk. There are no costs associated with walking to the memorial.

  • Public Transport

    Athlone is well-served by public transportation. Bus Éireann operates local town services, including routes that pass near Custume Place. From the Athlone Railway Station, you can take a local bus or walk to the memorial. Exit the station and head southwest on Station Road. Continue straight until you reach the junction with the N61. Cross the road and turn left onto the N61, walking towards the roundabout. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Custume Place. The memorial will be located on your right side after a short distance. A single fare on Athlone town buses typically costs around €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Athlone. A taxi from the Athlone Train Station to the Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial on Custume Place would typically cost between €8 and €12. Taxi ranks are located at the train station and on Church Street.

  • Parking

    Several car parks are available in Athlone town centre, within walking distance of the memorial. Street parking is available in the vicinity, but it may be limited. Car parks such as Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre and Inish House Complex offer hourly and daily rates. Expect to pay around €1.50 per hour, with a maximum daily charge of €8. Long-term parking is available at Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre for €3.50 per day in designated areas.

Discover more about Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial

Located on Custume Place in Athlone, County Westmeath, the Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial is a powerful monument dedicated to the men and women of the Irish Republican Army who served in the Athlone Brigade during the tumultuous years of the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. The memorial, officially unveiled in 1953, features a life-size limestone statue of an IRA volunteer in uniform, standing on a two-tiered plinth. Metal railings surround the memorial, setting it back slightly from the road.The memorial is inscribed with text in both Irish and English, commemorating those who gave their lives in action against British Crown forces. The names of those killed or who died from wounds and hardships are listed, ensuring their sacrifices are not forgotten. The monument also bears the words of Patrick Pearse, a leader of the Easter Rising: "We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland, and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible".The Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial is more than just a monument; it is a place for reflection and remembrance. It offers visitors an opportunity to contemplate the struggle for Irish independence and the sacrifices made by those who fought for it. The surrounding area, steeped in history and charm, invites further exploration of Athlone's rich cultural heritage. The memorial stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of those who fought for their beliefs, inviting visitors to engage with Ireland's legacy in a meaningful way.The statue was carved by Desmond Broe, from a family of sculptors from Harold's Cross in Dublin.

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