But, supported by an unmovable faith, the people remain stoically warm and welcoming.. Southen Ireland is predominantly a Catholic country though ‘the other lot’ have a foothold here too. For the remains of every levelled house, quietly and unobtrusively reminding passers- by of the wretchedness of the potato famine, there is a pristine road side shrine to Our Lady benevolently smiling.
Roadside shrine
The Irish may lampoon themselves with schoolboy glee in the media and gift shops, but they take religion incredibly seriously. The incense aroma of burning peat filling the air with serene assuredness, creates the effect of an open air cathedral. Even as a heathen, tree hugging non-believer, I can’t avoid the feeling that the Irish are extraordinarily blessed people.