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The Children of Lir

Lough Derravaragh, County Westmeath

Four children turned into swans by a jealous stepmother for 900 years.

In one of Ireland's best-loved legends, the jealous Aoife turned her four stepchildren into swans, condemning them to spend 300 years on Lough Derravaragh, 300 on the Sea of Moyle and 300 off the west coast. Only when they heard a Christian bell, centuries later, were they freed, turning into very old people who died soon after.

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When
Legend
Where
53.6500, -7.3600
Group
Legends

Visiting

Walks and viewpoints around the lake near Multyfarnham.

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