Adare Manor, located in County Limerick, is an architectural gem that arose from an unlikely source of inspiration—a debilitating disease. Built in the early 1800s by the 2nd Earl of Dunraven, the manor is a showcase of exquisite craftsmanship and captivating design.
History
The Earl, once a vigorous outdoorsman, found himself confined due to an onset of gout. His wife, Countess Caroline, unable to watch her husband suffer from idleness, encouraged him to take on a grand project: transforming their manor into a breathtaking work of art. The result is the stunning structure we see today, a testament to both the Earl’s determination and the Countess’s influence.
Details
At Adare Manor, every detail of the architecture and decoration is a testament to the imaginative spirit of its creators. The estate features 365 stained-glass windows and 52 chimneys, symbolizing the days and weeks of the year. Other elements of the design, such as features of increasing size, represent the seven days of the week and the four seasons. The rooftops are adorned with carved words that, when read together, form a Bible verse, while carved gargoyles stand guard over the manor.
Inside, the grandeur continues with elaborate wood and stone carvings, crystal chandeliers, stained-glass windows, and intricately tiled fireplaces. The manor’s motto, “Quae Sursum Volo Vidare” (“What is Heavenly I would See”), is prominently displayed throughout. Despite the extraordinary and unusual nature of the manor’s design, the Earl and Countess accomplished their vision without incurring any debt, an impressive feat given the scope of their project.
When the Manor passed to the 3rd Earl of Dunraven, it was still a work in progress. Determined to complete the grand vision, he focused on the surrounding land, creating lush, intricate gardens and winding pathways throughout the estate. During Ireland’s Great Famine, when many landowners were abandoning their workers, the 3rd Earl provided jobs for the local population, which earned the Dunraven family a reputation for compassion and support. The Manor was completed in the early 1860s, and the family’s commitment to their people was recognized and appreciated across Ireland. The 4th Earl of Dunraven even played a key role in advocating for land reform, contributing to the dismantling of large estates in Ireland, including the eventual loss of 39,000 acres of his own land.
Today
In 1982, the 7th Earl of Dunraven sold the estate, which was then purchased by the Kane family from Florida. They dedicated themselves to restoring the Manor to its original splendor, transforming it into a luxurious 5-star hotel while preserving the architectural beauty and craftsmanship of the home. Today, the Manor feels more like a historical home than a modern hotel, and it continues to house a restaurant and gift shop, offering visitors a taste of both its rich history and contemporary luxury.
