"...COUNTY MAYO..." County Mayo by Xinta

County Mayo Travel Guide: 213 reviews and 372 photos

Mayo is a maritime county and the third largest county in Ireland. It is becoming a popular tourist destination with continuous investment in facilities, attractions and amenities. Our Lady's Shrine, Knock, is one of the major attractions of the county, with over 1,500,00 visitors annually. His Holiness Pope John Paul II came as a pilgrim to Knock on 30 September 1979, the goal of his journey to Ireland. Apart from His Holiness Pope John Paul II, Mayo has welcomed other world figures in recent times: President Reagan of the United States to Cong in 1974; Prince Charles to Delphi Lodge in 1995 and Prince Edward to Castlebar in 1996, as well as numerous European Union and United States celebrities.

One of the most significant developments in the county in the 20th century was the provision of an international airport between Knock and Charlestown. It was erected due to the vision and determination of Monsignor James Horan (1911 - 1986), who was parish priest of Knock from 1970 until his death. Despite many vicissitudes and much criticism, the airport was completed on schedule and within budget (itself a major achievement by Irish standards) and officially opened on 30 May 1986. It is now known as Horan International Airport in honour of the great monsignor.

Last visit to County Mayo: May 2002
Intro Updated Dec 17, 2002
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Reviews (1)

Ireland's National Marian Shrine... Things to Do (1)

One unique thing about it is that about one and a quarter million pilgrims come to Knock each year, not only within... more travel advice

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Comments (2)

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SpagBoll Jul 15, 2005 at 6:21 AM

Nice tip, we're over in Mayo in a couple of weeks and I'll try and pay the Sharine a visit
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Alain_Smeets Jul 28, 2003 at 9:52 AM

Good start and tip.