car hire Knock

For the better part of its history, the city of Knock in Ireland's County Mayo existed well under the radar as an unspectacular, run-of-the-mill hamlet. But all that changed in 1894 when two women claimed they saw apparitions of Mary, Joseph, and St. John the Evangelist near the gable of a local church. Witnesses hurrying to the scene beheld the same sight, and not long after this the Catholic Church proclaimed the event a genuine religious vision and miracle. Other worshippers began having visions there too, and soon the newly-dubbed "Church of the Apparition" was being visited by pilgrims from near and far. Many came to the church disabled or ailing, and walked away saying they were fully recovered. After the Church again confirmed Knock's miraculous status in 1936 and the deluge of pilgrims continued, the site took on very sacred standing among all Catholics. Pope John Paul II and Pope Paul VI both made the trip in the 70s, and Mother Teresa visited Knock in 1993.

The Church of the Apparition is, of course, by far the primary attraction in Knock. You'll witness several pilgrims worshipping at the chapel here, no matter the time of day or year. You can also see a sculptural version of the original vision. A place of worship with a longer history, Ballintubber Abbey is another popular stop in Knock. It's the only Irish church started up by an Irish king that's still in use.

An hour and a half by hire car (pick-up is convenient at Knock International Airport, also called Ireland West Airport Knock), the western edge of County Mayo puts you in range of tiny Clare Island. Leave your car at the pier and take the short ferry ride to this mountainous island with a population of 125. Clare Island is best known as the home of the pirate queen, Grace O'Malley, and you can visit the ruins of her residence (dubbed Grace O'Malley's Castle). Another popular landmark is the Clare Island Lighthouse. The island has maps available for those looking to take hill walks or ride bicycles around. Rare birds and interesting flora and fauna are on display all over the island. If you desire, you can stay overnight on the island – it's home to a hotel, some bed-and-breakfasts, and a few quaint waterfront cottages.