Knock

Mini guide to Knock

Knock Shrine is located in the town of Knock, in County Mayo on the west coast of Ireland. Knock, the Irish Lourdes, is a famous pilgrimage destination for thousands of people every year. In 1879, an apparition of Mary, St. Joseph and John the Baptist was seen here by fifteen people, and since then it has become an important place for Catholics all over the world, with even the Pope visiting here in 1979.

The town of Knock itself is a small rural town that has grown to cater for the many tourists. The focal point of the town is the Knock Shrine and this is what attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The Basilica of Our Lady Queen of Ireland is by far the most impressive building. On a busy day, throngs of people can be seen doing the ‘Stations of the Cross’ on the Knock Shrine Calvary, or in the Church of the Apparition if the famous Irish weather turns bad!

Knock is not famous for its lively pubs or beautiful landscape and its appeal is of a religious nature. Nevertheless if you’re travelling through the west of Ireland it can be an interesting stop along the way.

Back to: rent a car in Ireland