Unlocking the Mystery of the Blarney Stone: Everything You Need to Know [Including Whether You Can Still Kiss It]

What is can you still kiss the blarney stone?

“Can you still kiss the blarney stone” is a question that many people ask when planning a trip to Ireland. The Blarney Stone, located in Blarney Castle in Cork County, Ireland, is believed to give anyone who kisses it the gift of eloquence or “the gift of gab.”

The tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone dates back to the 15th century and has been popular among tourists for centuries. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions and concerns about sanitation, visitors may not be allowed to kiss the stone at this time.

If you are planning on visiting Ireland soon, it’s important to check with local authorities or tour guides for any updated regulations regarding kissing the Blarney Stone before making your plans.

Step-by-Step: How to Still Kiss the Blarney Stone in 2021

The Blarney Stone has been a popular attraction for centuries and even the pandemic of 2020 cannot stop us from visiting it! The tradition of kissing the stone is said to bring good luck and eloquent speech, which makes it an alluring tourist destination every year. So, let’s dive into how we can still kiss the Blarney Stone in 2021 while staying safe.

Step 1: Plan Ahead

Before heading out on your adventure to kiss the Blarney Stone, make sure to plan ahead. Firstly, check if it’s open for visitors, as due to Covid-19 regulations many famous landmarks are now closed or have limited hours of operation. Also, don’t forget about booking tickets in advance so that you do not have to stand in long queues with other tourists who may be anxious about maintaining social distance too.

Step 2: Pack Your Masks
As we know well by now, masks are essential tools for protection against harmful germs and bacteria especially during these challenging times when viruses pose a significant risk. So don’t overlook packing them in your travel bag along with hand sanitizers – keep some handy before physically touching any area since covid spreads through surfaces also.

Step 3: Dress Comfortably
It’s probably no surprise that climbing up stairs towards the top of the castle takes a fair bit of energy. But at least this time around there’s air conditioning instead of panting beneath hot weather conditions trying desperately not sweat off superfluously down your face limiting certain movements or accidentally transferring bodily fluids containing coronavirus onto another person should you find yourself close enough together!

Step 4: Maintain Social Distancing
While traveling nowadays might seem strange because people usually tend to forget they need their space outside home premises but please try adhering strictly in public places such as tourist attractions where crowds would’ve previously gathered regularly pre-covid era until it may soon relax over course time brought upon great upheaval throughout the world.

Step 5: Get Ready to Kiss the Blarney Stone
The moment has arrived! When reaching the top of Blarney Castle, you will see a hole leading downwards with an iron railing around it. Lie down on your back, take hold of these rails for safely and lean out towards the crevice put together breaths you want to impart good luck into- Now pucker up and kiss away!

In conclusion, kissing The Blarney Stone is still possible in 2021 as long as we follow safe practices while visiting this popular tourist destination during pandemic times .So make sure that you pack your masks, adhere strictly to social distancing rules & regulations limit crowd gathering occasions basically do everything within your powers when embarking outside home boundaries since covid transformed our daily lifestyles hopefully maintaining such measures would help prevent future pandemics from reoccurring or spreading too quickly again like wildfire.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kissing the Blarney Stone Today

Kissing the Blarney Stone is a popular tradition for those visiting Ireland, but with popularity comes questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about kissing the Blarney Stone and everything you need to know before partaking in this Irish ritual.

1. What is the Blarney Stone?
The Blarney Stone is a stone built into the walls of Blarney Castle in County Cork, Ireland. The story goes that whoever kisses the stone will be granted “the gift of gab” or eloquence.

2. How do I kiss it?
To kiss the Blarney Stone, one must climb up to the top of the castle’s tower and lean backwards over a sheer drop while holding onto iron bars for support. Then, with some help from a member of staff at Blarney Castle who holds on to your legs for safety purposes (rest assured – they have done this hundreds if not thousands of times), you need to lower yourself down and kiss the stone.

3. Is it worth doing?
Yes! You’ll get an amazing view from atop one of Ireland’s most famous castles (which makes climbing those stairs all worth it!) plus after years living under lockdowns and restrictions due to COVID-19 pandemic, getting out into nature can be much needed therapy too!

4. Can anyone do it?
While most people should be able to physically reach where they hold kissed by someone else (once upon a time many fanciful tales were told by guides around height requirements / sticklers about weight limits – but assembly standards now mean everyone has access!), visitors with certain medical conditions may be advised against attempting this feat due its inherent risks so please follow any advice given during safety briefing beforehand

5. Does kissing status as tourists end once we’ve landed back home?
Definitely not – just because we returned home doesn’t mean our love affair with culture stops! Besides sharing photos on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, we can also keep the magic alive by telling stories that have been passed down through generations about this famous castle and its stone – or perhaps invest in some Blarney-related souvenirs online!

6. Is there anything I should do before or after to prepare?
It’s always wise to wear comfortable clothing for climbing the stairs, while preparing mentally (and sometimes physically) for getting up close and personal with centuries old bricks requires a bit of grit! Pack any snacks you may need if intending spending several hours exploring the castle grounds too.

7. How long does it take to climb up and kiss the stone?
From lining up to make your way upstairs (yes, unfortunately during peak tourism times things can move slowly), to descending back down once done kissing magical rock, estimate 60-90 minutes ish depending on crowds / group size / linguistic ability etc

8. Can I bring anything with me when kissing the Blarney Stone?
While taking selfies these days seems like an norm now given how ubiquitous smartphones are proving – giant “selfie sticks” definitely aren’t allowed as Castle staff are very experienced at pulling people back onto safety platform using rope attached beneath feet! Do not risk dropping phone or wedding band down sheer walls either!!

9. What time of day would be best for visiting Blarney Castle?
Given unpredictable nature of weather here in Ireland, ideally dawn-to-dusk but certainly Midday until last entry around 4pm gives greatest chance good visibility for photos – just factor in big queues & security checks especially in high tourist season..

10. Anything else worth seeing near Blarney Castle while there…?
Don’t miss out on taking stroll around wooded paths shaded by towering trees lined with bluebells come May-June onwards each year where local tales abound sharing more Celtic myths involving fairies than leprechauns whilst admiring floral displays including roses gardens deemed among most impressive anywhere in world; don’t forget to take load off your feet afterward trying “Basilisk’s Eye” cocktail at Blarney Stone Bar – or if feeling indulgent, perhaps an Irish whiskey tasting tour too!

The Top 5 Facts You Need to Know About Kissing the Blarney Stone Now

Kissing the Blarney Stone is one of the most iconic and unique experiences you can have when traveling to Ireland. Located in County Cork, this famous stone sits at the top of Blarney Castle and has been attracting visitors from all around the world for centuries. But what exactly is kissing the Blarney Stone? And why do people believe it brings good luck? Here are the top five facts you need to know about kissing the Blarney Stone now:

1. The history behind kissing the Blarney Stone

The origins of kissing the Blarney Stone are shrouded in mystery but there are a few popular legends associated with this ancient ritual. One story claims that during a visit by Queen Elizabeth I in 1602, Cormac Teige MacCarthy, Lord of Muskerry, was asked to pledge allegiance to her majesty. Rather than openly declaring loyalty he sent an eloquent letter instead – which included poetic flattery as well as subtle insults disguised as compliments – hence quickly becoming known as “Blarney”. Another legend suggests that a witch was saved from drowning and she granted whoever kissed this special rock near castle turrets’ ability to speak sweetly.

2. How to kiss the Blarney Stone

Kissing the Blarney Stone involves lying down on your back and leaning over backwards while holding onto iron bars for support before planting a smooch on smooth Groove set into tower’s wall with teeth showing (those afraid might prefer blowing a kiss!). This requires some dexterity and bravery since there’s nothing between you and thistle ground floor far below except open air! So don’t forget step by step instructions available onsite.

3. It’s not just any old stone!

Sure it looks like normal large limestone block unless seen up close – however it’s referred extravagantly by locals or guides due its significance who sold their land only if they were assured tenant would receive access to stone. This “Stone of Eloquence” is rumored to bring the gift of gab or improve one’s communication skills and therefore countless people flock every year for a chance at this extraordinary encounter.

4. The Blarney Stone has had some famous visitors

Over the centuries, numerous prominent figures have made their way to Blarney Castle in search of what kissing the stone can offer – including Winston Churchill, who famously kissed it twice. Others include American founding father Benjamin Franklin as well as a long list of celebrities from all around the world!

5. It might not be easy but rewards are fruitful

It may take considerable effort & couple requests from trustworthy peeps (who will take good pictures too!) however once you’ve got your lips on rock success comes with many benefits: besides improved confidence when speaking publicly; Irish folklore suggests that snogging this special bluestone brings temporary wealth plus if shared with ‘loved ones’ could create intimacy between two people.

In summary, kissing the Blarney Stone is something everyone should try at least once in their lifetime! With its rich history, notorious tales and unique nature there’s no wonder it intrigues so international travelers – so go ahead give Ireland visit soonest and get ready to pucker up…regardless where your journey takes you here’re always new experiences waiting just around corner worth exploring!

COVID-19 Update: Can You Still Safely Kiss the Blarney Stone?

Since the emergence of COVID-19, the world has been grappling with how to navigate daily life amidst such a contagious virus. One of Ireland’s most beloved attractions, The Blarney Stone, has not escaped this new reality. Thousands flock annually to kiss this mystical rock believed to impart eloquence upon those who do so.

However, many visitors now find themselves questioning whether kissing the Blarney Stone could potentially expose them to COVID-19. After all, it’s a physical act that involves placing one’s lips on an object which countless others have done before.

The Irish tourist board and government have taken measures to ensure safety at historic sites like the Blarney Castle where you can still access The Blarney Stone but are required to wear face masks and practice social distancing while waiting in line for only about five seconds per person allowed with gloves worn by all staff members removing their tickets and positioning them correctly for kissing.

But despite these precautions, some may argue that there is no way of fully guaranteeing complete protection from exposure to the virus when carrying out such an activity.

It may be said that we must use our common sense here – practicing good hygiene such as thorough hand washing with soap or sanitizing hands after touching any surfaces before coming into contact with your eyes or mouth as well as wearing a good surgical mask if lined properly under consumer grade mask ad verifying wait times and percentages would go a long way towards inhibiting transmission risk though simple prevention techniques should never be missed out medical experts say – note ‘There are really no silly questions’. If you’re worried let’s hit mute anxiety together; Here at DailyMews we don’t doubt present circumstances warrant diligence simply encouraged respectful consideration rather than fear based decision making skills.

In conclusion; keep up diligent practices will assure safer experience during travel just remember ‘when in Rome’ adjusting cultural expectations displays appreciation for tradition especially once enduring crisis so smile beneath your mask (Bonus: New avoidance of ‘stinky breath’ caused by kissing the Blarney Stone!) , take the selfie, and kiss it if it’s important to you just ensure you do so with full knowledge on precautions!

Tips and Tricks for Visiting the Blarney Castle and Kissing the Famous Stone

Visiting the Blarney Castle is a must-do activity if you’re exploring Ireland. It’s famous for its beautiful gardens, impressive history, and of course, the Blarney Stone! Kissing the stone has become a popular tourist attraction over the years. According to legend, kissing it will give you “the gift of gab” or eloquence in speech. Here are some tips and tricks to make your visit as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

Firstly, arrive early. The castle gets incredibly busy throughout the day with tour buses arriving regularly so getting there early gives one ample time to enjoy an uninterrupted sightseeing experience before crowds form.

Next up – dress practically! Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating both the castle steps and park walks around it. Also remember variable weather conditions include rainfall which can create slippery conditions underfoot.

Similarly, bring along steady equipment such as cameras that take high-quality images without having blurry photos at end of your trip especially ones taken on higher levels since some images could be captured from far distances thus clarity becomes paramount

Now onto pricing; buy tickets online ahead of time saves time otherwise spent waiting in line also being informed about costs beforehand helps budgeting accordingly- *Hint* kids under five go free!

Once inside the castle walls there’s no skipping leg day – stair climb is inevitable because stone-kissing spot requires extra effort nonetheless a breathtaking 360-degree view awaits visitors when they reach topmost part where stone location lies

It might seem obvious but don’t forget to disinfect your hands thoroughly either by carrying hand sanitizer or using those provided while undertaking activity itself due to countless kisses performed prior yours

Be sure to pause for photo breaks on every level just after each hundred steps so relatives watching via feed updates see all aspects visited like Barnes’ home kitchen garden St Dominick’s Park among others worth capturing memories

Finally, relax and savour moments before leaving say goodbye to friendly staff members who make experience memorable since being merry, witty, and keeping it light-hearted might come in handy when dealing with crowds!

Visiting the Blarney Castle is something every traveler should do while exploring Ireland. And remember this – Kissing the famous stone does indeed work for most who carry out the exercise. Good luck!

From History to Mythology: Exploring the Origins of Kissing Ireland’s Most Iconic Rock.

The rock has been standing at the edge of Ireland for over 350 million years. It is a remarkable piece of natural history that has fascinated people from around the world. But what makes this rock even more special is its association with kissing, an act which comes naturally to many across all cultures. The Cliffs of Moher may take your breath away with their sheer height and rugged beauty, but it’s the tradition of kissing this iconic rock which makes it stand out as one-of-a-kind.

The origins of kissing the Blarney Stone date back to several centuries ago when Irish lords once lived in a castle within close proximity to where the stone now stands today. One brave lord named Cormac Laidir McCarthy was granted authority over Munster by Queen Elizabeth I and had endless disputes with her Majesty’s officials.

Cormac decided he needed some supernatural assistance in his battle against English domination and so went to see a druidess on Mushera Mountain who advised him that he would find help on top of Blarney Castle’s roof if he kissed something there:

“There are certain properties in this humungous limestone block akin unto magic powers” said she “and no lead nor devilment can prevail against them”.

Upon returning home from his visit, Cork MacCarthy arrived at his castle near Benadheane Head only to end up getting into arguments shortly after entering through its gates. In order to distract residents from hearing these disagreements, legend claims he climbed halfway down inside another tower situated next door until they quieted down.

Once upon arrival atop co-worker Richard Martin (Roche)’s construction job site not far off from present-day O’Connell Street busy shopping district someday between 1542-1605 BC–itself an amazing feat–rather than taking credit for work accomplished or inspecting any part thereof like every other nobleman might otherwise have done had they possessed such impressive skills themselves Lorde Cromwell made palaver about various unorthodox subjects, including political philosophy and world geography before turning his attention to kissing a parapet of Blarney Castle roof because it was rumored supposedly bestows good luck on its bussers.

The rumor regarding the power of kissing this rock soon grew into legends and then into myths; thus began the tradition. It is said that if you kiss the stone, you will be blessed with eternal eloquence.” However, achieving this supposed blessing comes at a price – one must contort themselves backwards over a sheer drop between tower battlements while holding onto iron bars for support.

According to Irish folklore, fairies had something to do with success in smooching Snáthaid mhe féin—the cleft-stone’s hallowed surface–which led some folks centuries ago believing those mischievous creatures might have been responsible for diverting Cromwell’s sorcery towards Englishman Richard Martin (Roche) hovering nearby while he puckered up!

Whether or not you believe in fairy tales and mythical powers given by mystical beings, there’s no denying that kissing Ireland’s iconic Rock has become an indelible cultural practice. It is a testament to people’s beliefs in traditions passed down from generation-to-generation through stories filled with history and mythology.

In conclusion, whether it was Cormac McCarthy seeking magical assistance during struggles against Queen Elizabeth I officials hundreds of years ago or simply today’s tourists looking for their own slice of luck – regardless which category one falls under when visiting Ireland: Stand atop Benadheane Head &see breathtaking views out ocean anywhere- nothing quite compares than puckering up legendry piece natural beauty!

Table with Useful Data:

Information from an expert: Although the Blarney Stone has been closed to kissing due to Covid-19 restrictions, it is expected to reopen in the future. It is important to note that there are multiple ways to kiss the stone without physically putting your lips on it. Additionally, some experts recommend against kissing the stone altogether due to hygiene concerns and the possibility of injury while attempting to lean over backwards. Nonetheless, if you choose to do so, make sure you follow safety guidelines provided by staff members at the site.

Historical fact:

For centuries, kissing the Blarney Stone located in Ireland’s Blarney Castle has been regarded as a symbol of good luck and eloquence. However, due to safety concerns and maintenance issues, visitors are no longer permitted to physically kiss the stone since 2020.