Why Do You Kiss the Blarney Stone Upside Down | Secret Ireland

What if I told you one of Ireland’s most famous traditions involves hanging upside down from a castle wall, trusting your life to a few iron rails and a stranger’s steady grip? That’s exactly what happened to me at Blarney Castle and yes, I kissed the stone. The queue was long, the air was damp with Irish weather, and as I leaned back over the battlements of Blarney Castle, I couldn’t help but wonder: Why do you kiss the Blarney Stone upside down anyway?

This age-old ritual is more than just a quirky tourist attraction it’s steeped in history, myth, and a touch of mischief. From Queen Elizabeth’s gripes to Goddess Clíodhna’s magic, the story behind the stone is as layered as the legends that surround it. So, grab a cup of tea (or maybe a Guinness), and let’s explore the truth, the tales, and my own slightly terrifying experience visiting Blarney Castle.

Why Is It Called Blarney?

The word “Blarney” became famous thanks to Queen Elizabeth I, who grew tired of sweet-talking delays from the Lord of Blarney, Cormac MacCarthy.

You know those moments when someone flatters you so sweetly, you almost forget they’re not giving you a straight answer? That, my friend, is pure Blarney. And it’s not just a funny Irish word it actually comes with royal drama and centuries-old wit.

Back in the late 1500s, Queen Elizabeth I had quite the frustration with the Lord of Blarney, Cormac Laidir MacCarthy. He always sent wonderful letters full of courteous explanations and poetic delays in response to her demands that he turn over Blarney Castle to the English crown. No conflict, only “gracious negotiations” that go on forever. “This is all Blarney he never means what he says!” the queen finally threw up her hands. And just like that, the word “Blarney” became legendary for clever talk that sounds good but cleverly avoids the point.

The man who built the castle, Cormac Laidir MacCarthy, was known for being smart and polite, which helped make “Blarney” a word that means smooth Irish praise.

But here’s where it gets even more interesting. Cormac wasn’t just dodging the queen he was protecting a place rich in Irish pride and magic. The MacCarthy family built Blarney Castle in the 15th century, and Cormac Laidir himself was no pushover. He was a fierce warrior, a castle-builder, and, clearly, a master negotiator. His legacy lives on not just in stone but in speech literally.

Why Do People Kiss the Blarney Stone Upside Down?

Here’s the thing the Blarney Stone isn’t sitting neatly on the ground waiting for a polite peck. Nope. It’s awkwardly lodged high in the outer wall of a medieval castle, several stories above the ground. So if you want that “gift of the gab,” you’ve got to earn it with a little bravery and a lot of balance.

Why do you kiss the Blarney Stone upside down? Because it is the only way to reach it! The stone is set into the castle’s battlements, close behind the parapet. Back in the day, that spot was never meant to be touched, let alone kissed by thousands of tourists each year.

When I was up there, I remember looking down way down and wondering how this ever became a thing. The view is wild, and so is the idea that someone decided, “You know what would make this better? Let’s dangle people upside down to kiss a rock.”

Originally, it wasn’t so theatrical. Locals and brave visitors may have leaned out slightly to touch the stone. But as tourism grew, so did the drama. Now, there are two sturdy iron bars and a castle staff member holding your waist as you slowly lower yourself backward, holding on for dear life.

Yes, it’s safe. But it definitely feels a bit mad in the moment. That strange backward lean your head hanging in the Irish wind, your feet clinging to stone makes it unforgettable.

About the Blarney Stone in Cork

You’ve probably seen pictures tourists lying on their backs, heads tilted way over the edge of a stone wall, lips pressed to a centuries-old slab. But what does the Blarney Stone actually look like?

Let me paint the picture. It’s not shiny or polished, and it’s definitely not sitting on a velvet cushion inside a museum. The Blarney Stone is a large, weathered block of limestone, slightly grayer than the rest of the castle wall. It’s tucked snugly into a gap between two castle stones, framed by solid iron bars, and it honestly blends in if you’re not looking for it. When I saw it up close, I thought, “Wait, that’s it?” because let’s be real, it doesn’t scream magical relic. But that’s part of the charm. It looks ordinary, but feels legendary.

Where is the Blarney Stone located?
You’ll find it near the very top of Blarney Castle built into the battlements, about 85 feet above the ground. Yep, way up there. To reach it, you climb a narrow spiral staircase, pass through rooms filled with centuries of stories, and finally arrive at a small open-air platform. The stone sits beneath a short parapet, which is why you have to lean backward holding onto two sturdy iron bars if you want to plant that famous kiss. It’s not exactly a casual experience.

Is the Blarney Stone magical, or just clever marketing?
That’s the million-euro question. Some say the stone was gifted by a goddess. Others claim it’s part of the Stone of Scone (used in royal coronations), or that it helped Cormac MacCarthy win a legal battle after a mystical dream. But here’s the thing: whether or not the legends are “true,” they’ve taken on a life of their own. And honestly, standing up there with the wind in my hair, I felt the myth more than the science. It didn’t matter where the stone came from it mattered what it made people feel.

More Than the Kiss: Discovering Blarney Castle Grounds

Okay, let me be honest before my visit, I thought Blarney Castle was all about the stone. Just kiss it, snap a photo, and tick the box, right? Nope. The castle grounds are an adventure of their own. There’s so much more to explore beyond that famous upside-down smooch. It’s like stepping into a living storybook where history, myth, and nature all collide.

From mysterious ruins to gardens straight out of a fantasy novel, here’s what stood out to me and why you should take your time wandering after you kiss the stone.

The Murder Room

This one gave me chills. Literally.

The Murder Room at Blarney Castle was a trap designed to dump boiling chemicals or rocks on invaders, demonstrating the castle’s horrific medieval defense techniques.

Inside the castle, there’s a small stone room known as the Murder Room and the name isn’t just for dramatic effect. Back in the day, this was a deadly trap. Invaders trying to force their way into the castle were met with a not-so-warm Irish welcome: rocks, boiling water, or worse, dropped through a hole in the ceiling. It was Blarney’s version of home security.

Standing there, I felt the heavy air and ancient stone pressing in around me. It’s one of those places where the past feels a bit too close. If you’re into dark history, this room hits different.

The Witch’s Kitchen

Now for something more magical.

The Witch’s Kitchen at Blarney Castle is a cave tied to local folklore and Goddess Clíodhna, believed to be home to a legendary witch who protected the stone.

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the grounds is the Witch’s Kitchen, a moss-covered cave with real folklore vibes. Legend says it was once the nighttime home of the Witch of Blarney, possibly linked to Goddess Clíodhna, the mythical protector of the stone. You’ll even find a stone seat called her “bed.”

I stepped inside and call me superstitious but it felt enchanted. Maybe it was the earthy scent, the hush of the trees, or just my imagination running wild, but there’s something alive about that space. Even if you’re not into legends, it’s a great photo spot.

The Herbaceous Border

After all the myth and medieval gloom, this part felt like a breath of fresh air literally.

The Herbaceous Border at Blarney Castle is a vibrant garden path filled with flowers and greenery, offering a peaceful contrast to the castle’s darker spots.

The Herbaceous Border is a colorful, flower-filled garden that runs along a quiet path. I walked it slowly, soaking up the greenery and bursts of blooms. Irish weather tends to make everything look extra lush, and on the day I visited, the flowers were glowing from a soft drizzle.

It’s peaceful here. Less crowded. Perfect for a slow wander or even a quiet moment to reflect on how weirdly awesome it is to kiss rocks for luck.

The Poison Garden

Yes, you read that right. A garden full of poison.

The Poison Garden at Blarney Castle features toxic plants like nightshade and wolfsbane, used to educate visitors about the darker side of botany.

Behind a black iron gate is Blarney’s Poison Garden, and it’s both fascinating and a little creepy. Inside are plants that you really shouldn’t touch think deadly nightshade, wolfsbane, and even cannabis. All clearly marked, of course.

The History Behind Kissing the Blarney Stone

So, who was the first person to kiss the Blarney Stone? That’s one of those questions that’s both simple and impossible. Nobody actually knows for sure. Some say it was a nobleman seeking legal help. Others claim it was a local who stumbled upon the stone’s powers by accident. But like most Irish legends, the story doesn’t hinge on hard facts it lives in the magic of maybe.

The origin story: Legal trouble, a dream, and a goddess?

According to legend, Cormac MacCarthy kissed the stone after a dream from a goddess, which gave him the “gift of the gab.

One of the most popular tales says that Cormac Laidir MacCarthy the very man who built Blarney Castle was once tangled up in a messy lawsuit. Desperate, he prayed to Goddess Clíodhna, a powerful figure in Irish mythology. That night, she appeared to him in a dream and told him to kiss a certain stone in the castle wall for “the gift of eloquence.” He did and won his case with such charm, the legend began.

What does it mean to have the “gift of the gab”?

The “gift of the gab” means being naturally persuasive and charming with words what kissing the Blarney Stone is believed to bestow.

If you’re unfamiliar, the “gift of the gab” is Irish slang for having a way with words smooth, witty, persuasive. Not pushy or annoying. Just… charming. The kind of talk that wins hearts, closes deals, or gets you out of trouble with a smile.

It’s not about lying. It’s about dancing with language. And if you’ve ever chatted with an Irish local in a pub, you know what I mean. Their words roll out like poetry, even when they’re just telling you how bad the weather is.

So yes, kissing the Blarney Stone is said to give you this special talent. And while there’s no scientific proof, there is something poetic about the whole experience. Maybe it’s the adrenaline from leaning backward over a drop, or maybe it’s the 600+ years of stories soaked into that stone but after my kiss, I swear I felt braver with words.

Goddess Clíodhna: The magical force behind the myth

Goddess Clíodhna is a mythical figure tied to the Blarney Stone’s origin, believed to have blessed it with eloquence.

Let’s talk more about Clíodhna, because she’s a bit of a legend herself. In Irish mythology, she’s often seen as a fairy queen or sea goddess, associated with love, beauty, and you guessed it inspiration.

In some stories, she ruled the fairy lands of South Munster and had the power to bestow gifts on mortals. Her connection to the stone adds an extra layer of mystery this isn’t just a rock you kiss. It’s possibly enchanted by a goddess, passed down through generations of whispered stories.

Is It Dangerous to Kiss the Blarney Stone?

No, kissing the Blarney Stone isn’t considered dangerous today thanks to modern safety rails and staff assistance, it’s a thrilling but secure experience.

Has Anyone Died Kissing the Blarney Stone?

There are no confirmed deaths from kissing the Blarney Stone.

Nope, no recorded fatalities. Surprising, right? Given the dramatic lean and dizzying height, you’d think there’d be some horror story floating around. But despite the myths, there’s no official evidence that anyone has died from kissing the stone.

That said, the tradition has evolved for a reason. Decades ago, it was just you, the stone, and gravity. No rails, no helpers just guts and a good grip. Today? Thankfully, you’ve got two strong iron bars to hold onto, and a castle staff member firmly holding your waist. It’s more controlled than risky, like indoor rock climbing with a quirky twist.

And let me tell you from personal experience while it feels wild in the moment (your head dangling over a wall with Irish wind in your ears), it’s safer than it looks. Still, if you’re afraid of heights or hate being upside down, brace yourself.

How Many People Have Fallen Kissing the Stone?

There are no verified reports of tourists falling while kissing the Blarney Stone, thanks to safety features added over the years.

You’ll hear whispers, of course. Stories passed around like ghost tales “My cousin’s friend almost slipped!” or “They say someone fell in the ‘80s!” But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find zero solid evidence. These tales are more legend than reality.

Today, falling is extremely unlikely. The iron rails are thick and firm, the staff are trained to guide you gently, and the setup is built with tourists in mind. It’s not a daredevil stunt it’s an Instagram moment with safety precautions.

When I did it, I was more nervous about someone catching a funny photo of my upside-down face than about falling. It’s awkward, sure. But dangerous? Not really. If anything, the real hazard might be letting your nerves get the best of you.

My Personal Experience Visiting Blarney Castle

Kissing the Blarney Stone upside down is one of those moments that lives rent-free in your memory part thrill ride, part ancient ritual. I didn’t expect it to feel so… surreal. But there I was, dangling backward from a centuries-old wall in the Irish wind, trusting my life to a pair of iron bars and a castle guide with a steady grip. And somehow, I loved every second of it.

What It Really Feels Like to Kiss the Stone (Upside Down!)

Let me be honest when I reached the top, my stomach did a little backflip. The battlements are high, the stone is awkwardly placed, and the lean is real. But the moment I went for it backward, feet planted, hands gripping the rails I felt this mix of nerves and joy. Like skydiving but slower, and with limestone instead of clouds.

So, how does it feel to kiss the Blarney Stone? A little scary, very awkward, but absolutely unforgettable. And the laugh I had afterward? Pure relief, pure joy, pure Ireland.

The Weather, the Crowd, and the Castle Vibes

I went on a typical Irish day gray skies, mist in the air, and that soft drizzle that somehow feels poetic instead of annoying. The kind of weather that makes everything greener, older, more magical.

There was a queue, of course. But honestly, it didn’t feel like a chore. Everyone was buzzing laughing nervously, swapping stories, hyping each other up. The staff kept things moving and made us feel safe. One even cracked a joke right before I leaned back: “Just think of it as extreme yoga with historical benefits.”

Exploring the Grounds (and That Sneaky Souvenir Shop)

After the stone, I wandered the castle grounds. They’re stunning. Think moss-covered trees, mysterious gardens, and stone paths that feel like they lead to other worlds. There’s a Poison Garden (yes, really), hidden walkways, and views that made me stop more than once just to take it all in.

And yes, I stopped at the souvenir shop. Don’t judge I couldn’t resist a “I kissed the Blarney Stone” magnet. Classic tourist move, I know, but come on… it’s part of the fun.

Is it worth exploring beyond the stone? 100%. The grounds alone are worth the trip.

Would I Recommend It?

In a heartbeat.

Should you visit Blarney Castle and kiss the stone? Absolutely if you want a travel story that starts with laughter and ends with legend. It’s not just a photo-op. It’s a moment. A bit of theatre, a bit of myth, and a lot of charm. You don’t just kiss a rock you connect with a piece of Irish magic.

Conclusion

It all comes down to where the stone is placed high up in the battlements of Blarney Castle, set into the outer wall below the parapet. There’s no easy way to reach it, so over the centuries, the only way to plant that legendary kiss has been by leaning backwards over a sheer drop. Sounds dramatic? It is.

Originally, folks were held by the ankles (no joke!) as they leaned out. Thankfully, today’s setup is a bit safer: you lie on your back, grab onto iron rails, and slowly tip your head backwards until your lips meet the stone. It’s a combination of excitement and tradition, and even with the safety bars, your heart may skip a beat!

As for how it became such a famous ritual? Over time, the daredevil nature of the act only added to the stone’s mystique. Kissing it upside down has become as legendary as the alleged gift of gab.

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