Ross Castle, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Éire

This photo should convey to you why Ross Castle is one of Ireland's more pervasive landmarks. For something that is one or two miles outside the town of Killarney, the setting is as far from urban as one might hope to get. The building itself dates from the fifteenth century and is now under the care of the Irish state and is remarkably well-preserved, considering that it was the last place in Munster to fall (in 1652) to the army left by Oliver Cromwell. Its setting, beside Ross Bay, part of Lough Leane (pronounced "lane"), is an idyllic one and fantastic views over the lake lead the eye towards hills enclosing the Gap of Dunloe and perhaps hiding Ireland's highest mountain, Carrauntoohil.