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Introducing Tralee
Despite being the county town, Tralee is dismissed in the rest of Kerry as an overflow valve for Limerick and its social problems. Tralee is certainly a down-to-earth place, more engaged with the business of everyday life than the tourist trade. A request for a cigarette is never far away and you should take care after dark. However, if you’ve just emerged from Kerry’s rural areas, this is a refreshingly lively, heterogeneous spot with some friendly pubs and worthwhile attractions.
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Founded by the Normans in 1216, Tralee has a long history of rebellion. In the 16th century the last ruling earl of the Desmonds was captured and executed here. His head was sent to Elizabeth I, who spiked it on London Bridge. The Desmond castle once stood at the junction of Denny St and the Mall, but any trace of medieval Tralee that survived the Desmond Wars was razed during the Cromwellian period.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
