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Tourist Attractions > Europe > Ireland > Croach Patrick | |
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Croach Patrick Description Situated close to the town of Westport in County Mayo, the peak of Croach Patrick rises 765m (2,510ft) and was a sacred pagan site of spiritual significance for hundreds of years before the arrival of Christianity. Saint Patrick travelled across Ireland spreading the word of God and, according to religious stories, arrived at what is now known as Croach Patrick in AD441 where he spent forty days and forty nights fasting on the summit of the mountain. By the seventh century, Croach Patrick had become one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in Ireland. And still today, each summer millions of pilgrims, many walking barefoot as a penance for wrongdoings, ascend Croach Patrick to visit the small church at the summit. The last Sunday in July is the main pilgrimage day attracting thousands of pilgrims. The climb is also popular throughout the year with walkers who ascend the mountain for the spectacular views across Clew Bay below. Transportation Air: Knock International Airport and Shannon International Airport. Rail: Westport Station. Road: Bus: Public services. Contact Addresses Ireland West Tourism, Aras Failte, Forster Street, County Galway, Ireland Tel: (0) 91 537700 Website: www.irelandwest.ie Ireland - Map 
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