Cromwell’s Bridge is a 17th-century bridge on the outskirts of Kenmare in County Kerry. Built by the English, its arch is particularly high, and is one of the village’s sights!
Although perfectly preserved, Cromwell’s Bridge is now considered too fragile to be crossed by man. The bridge is named after Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), a Briton who attempted to crush the Irish rebellions.
However, the Briton never set foot in Kerry, which raises many questions among historians. Why was the bridge so named?
Today, Cromwell’s Bridge has literally been overgrown, giving it an enchanting, bucolic charm. Access is of course free, and the area is quiet enough for a picnic in the heart of nature!
Its shape has the merit of being strange: its arch is particularly strong, and must have been rather uncomfortable for the British army to cross!