Carlow

Carlow stands at the confluence of the Barrow and Burrin rivers, and tradition has it that the junction of the two rivers once covered such a large area of ground that a lake was formed, or, as some believe four lakes—hence the name Ceatharloch or City of the Four Lakes. As a strategic river crossing, the town was the scene of a number of important battles and the Anglo Normans signaled its importance by building the great Carlow Castle in the 13th century.

Today, Carlow is a vibrant college and market town, with a thriving arts and crafts community.