From glass to rock

This morning we visited the Waterford Crystal works. We are staying in Waterford. It was quite fascinating, easy to see why the glass is so expensive! It takes people 8 years to become a master craftsman in one discipline, and there are 4 different areas. 

These are the glass blowers.

This craftsman is putting the wedge shaped cut in a large bowl.

Each year this factory makes the individual pieces that makes up the ball that falls in New York City in New Years. This is one of 2668 triangles!

The showroom is filled with priceless pieces!

As this had been an ancient Viking town, we even chanced upon a few Vikings on the street!

During the afternoon, we went to county Tipperary and visited the Rock of Cashal. Again, another monastery high up on a hill. The oldest building, the cathedral was built in 1194.

Although it threatened to rain all day, for the most part, the sun shone on our day.

Enjoying some Irish whiskey!