Tullig Wood gradually emerges ahead, which is mainly Beech, Oak and Ash with Hazel and Elm. There is also Sweet Chestnut growing amongst the Beech. The ground flora is best seen in spring, with many Bluebells, Violets and Primroses. A steep bank slopes down on the left where Badgers may be found and at night Barn Owls hunt. Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff and Blackcap give a blast of song during the summer, when Speckled Wood, Meadow Brown and Ringlet butterflies are plentiful. Look out for the metallic blue/green Beautiful Jewelwing perching on the leaves of Beech. This is a scarce damselfly in Limerick that breeds in fast flowing upland stony rivers
The chalice is a large, two-handled silver cup, decorated with gold, gilt bronze, brass, lead pewter and enamel, which has been assembled from 354 separate pieces. The main body of the chalice is formed from two hemispheres of sheet silver joined with a rivet hidden by a gilt-bronze band. The names of the apostles are incised in a frieze around the bowl, below a girdle bearing inset gold wirework panels of animals, birds, and geometric interlace.
The chalice was found in a hoard by two boys, Jim Quinn and Paddy Flanagan in 1868; digging in a potato field on the south-western side of a rath (ring fort) called Reerasta, beside the village of Ardagh, County Limerick, Ireland. The chalice held the other items, covered merely by a slab of stone; the pieces must have been interred in a hurry, probably temporarily, as though the owner probably intended to return for them at a later time.
Desmond Hall overlooking Newcastle West
The castle remains at Newcastle West survive as separate entities. This is Desmond Hall that was created from a 13c chapel, and used for banquets and entertainment. It comprises a lower vaulted chamber and an upper hall. It underwent further rebuilding in the 15c. The castle was confiscated after the Desmond Rebellions, and granted in 1591 to Sir William Courtenay. In 1598 it was captured by the “sugan” Earl of Desmond, but was recaptured by the English in 1599. The castle was surrendered in 1643 after a four month siege by the Confederate Catholics, and burnt.