Description
A center devoted to the art of seanchai, pronounced "shan-a-key" in the Irish language and meaning storytelling, and how it evolved into the writing. Many people believe seanchai to be the ancestral voice of the Irish people.
Located in a restored 19th century Georgian house, the center has created five unique audio-visual rooms celebrating five local North Kerry writers, John B. Keane, Bryan MacMahon, Maurice Walsh, Brendan Kennelly, and George Fitzmaurice. Open the door to each room and immerse yourself in the flow of words from his pen, sitting beside him in his environment.
Included in admission is a guided tour of Listowel Castle, located next to the center. The castle was built in the 15th century by the FiztMaurices and overlooks the river Feale.
There is a literary café if you feel inspired to write over a cup of tea, a bookstore with a wonderful collection of works for your library, and a gift shop. The staff is passionate about words and knowledgeable about local literary events. Check the schedule of readings and workshops hosted by the center.
How to get there
By car:
From Limerick, take N69 coastal highway west to Listowel. Seanchai is located at the center of town, on The Square, next to the castle and across from the church.
From Tralee, take N69 north to Listowel. Seanchai is located at the center of town, on The Square, next to the castle and across from the church.
By bus:
From Dublin, Limerick, or Tralee, take Bus Eireann #13, Monday to Sunday. From Galway, take Bus Eireann #54, Monday to Sunday. See www.buseireann.ie website for all current travel details and restrictions.
Opening times
June to September:
Six days from 10AM to 5PM (last tours at 4PM). On Sundays by appointment.
October to May:
Five days from 10AM to 4:30PM (last tours at 3PM). Weekends for group bookings from October to April.
Address
Seanchai
Kerry Literary & Cultural Centre
24 The Square
Listowel, Co. Kerry
Tel: +353 (0)68 22212
Web: www.kerrywritersmuseum.com
Email: info@kerrywritersmuseum.com
Listowel Castle
The Square
Listowel, Co. Kerry
Tel: +353 1 647 6593
Email: info@heritageireland.ie
Written by Liz O' Malley - Summer of Travel 2007