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Ballykissane Monument: A Testament to Irish Independence
A poignant memorial in County Kerry marking the tragic beginning of the 1916 Easter Rising and Ireland's fight for independence.
The Ballykissane Monument, located near Killorglin, County Kerry, commemorates the first casualties of the 1916 Easter Rising. Three Irish Volunteers lost their lives when their car plunged into the River Laune. The monument stands as a poignant reminder of their sacrifice and the struggle for Irish independence.
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A brief summary to Ballykissane Monument
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Unnamed Road, Co., Ballykissane, Co. Kerry, IE
Discover more about Ballykissane Monument
The Ballykissane Monument stands as a solemn tribute to the three Irish Volunteers—Con Keating, Dónal Sheehan, and Charlie Monahan—who tragically died at Ballykissane Pier on Good Friday, April 21, 1916. These men were the first casualties of the Easter Rising, a pivotal event in Ireland's fight for independence.
Located near Killorglin in County Kerry, the pier and monument mark the spot where their car plunged into the River Laune. The Volunteers were en route to Cahersiveen to establish radio communications with Sir Roger Casement and the German arms ship Aud, which was intended to provide support for the Rising. A wrong turn in the darkness led them to the pier, where the driver mistook the moonlit reflection on the water for a bridge.
The monument stands to the right of the pier. It serves as a place for reflection on the events of 1916. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the River Laune and the surrounding landscape. Each year, on or near Good Friday, a commemoration is held at the pier to honor the men. The event includes wreath-laying and speeches, ensuring that their sacrifice is not forgotten.
Visitors can explore the Ballykissane Centenary Loop Walk, a 6.5km trail that follows the Volunteers' route and showcases the area's natural beauty. The pier is also a spot for fishing, where sea trout and bass are common.
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Getting There
Walking
From Killorglin town center, the Ballykissane Monument is approximately a 1.5 km walk. Follow the N70 road west from Killorglin. The walk starts near Fair Field Car Park and includes a short stretch on a traffic-free cycle route. The walk takes around 15-20 minutes.
Public Transport
Bus Éireann and Local Link Kerry buses serve Killorglin. From Killorglin, follow the N70 road west for about 1.5 km to reach the monument. The walk from the bus stop to the monument takes approximately 15-20 minutes. A single fare on Local Link Kerry can range from €2.80 to €5.50 depending on the distance.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Killorglin. A taxi from Killorglin town center to the Ballykissane Monument is a short ride. The base fare is €4.20, with a price per km of €1.30 during the standard rate (08:00 to 20:00). The premium fare (20:00 to 08:00 and Sundays) has a base fare of €4.80 and a price per km of €1.71. Expect to pay around €10-€15 for the trip.
Driving
From Killarney, drive 22 km west on the N72 road toward Cahirciveen. From Tralee, travel 26 km south on the N70 toward Killorglin. Once in Killorglin, follow the N70 west for approximately 1.5 km. Free parking is available at Fair Field Car Park, about 50 meters from the pier entrance. Limited roadside parking is available near the pier. Overflow parking is available at Ballykissane GAA Club car park, about 100 meters northeast of the pier.
A brief summary to Ballykissane Monument
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