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where in the world 871 - Blennerville Bridge just outside Tralee, can't see the maid in that reflection

all shots by KHWD 2023

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Absolutely, folks — this picture’s got all the ingredients you love: layered history, coastal drama, and a touch of poetic romance. Let’s dive in.

🌉 Blennerville Bridge & Reflections in the Water Blennerville Bridge spans the River Lee at its estuary, just west of Tralee in County Kerry. It’s a seven-bay stone bridge that forms a causeway between the canal and river, offering a striking view of the Slieve Mish mountains and the iconic Blennerville Windmill.

- On calm days, the tidal waters mirror the bridge, windmill, and surrounding village in stunning detail — a dream for photographers.

- The reflections often include clouds drifting over the mountains, adding layers of texture and mood to the scene.

- At sunrise or sunset, the water glows with amber and violet hues, turning the bridge into a silhouette against the sky — perfect for capturing symmetry and atmosphere.

Photographic Tips

- Position yourself near the Tralee Canal or the south bank of the River Lee for the best angles.

- Use a polarizing filter to manage glare and deepen the contrast in reflections.

- Try shooting during low tide when the water is stillest, especially in autumn when the light is soft and golden.

💔 The Maid of Tralee — Mary O’Connor She’s the heart of the famous ballad The Rose of Tralee, which inspired the international festival. Mary was a maid in service to the wealthy Mulchinock family in Tralee. William Pembroke Mulchinock, a poet from the household, fell deeply in love with her — but their romance was thwarted by class divisions and political turmoil.

- William wrote the song as a tribute to Mary’s beauty and truthfulness:

“She was lovely and fair as the rose of the summer,

Yet 'twas not her beauty alone that won me...”

- After being falsely accused of murder, William fled to India. When he returned years later, he learned that Mary had died of tuberculosis.

- Heartbroken, he was buried beside her in Clogherbrien graveyard, just outside Tralee.

🌹 Legacy The story of Mary and William became a symbol of enduring love and Irish identity, and the festival now celebrates women of Irish descent from around the world — not for beauty alone, but for character, kindness, and cultural pride.

 

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Uploaded on July 3, 2025
Taken on May 20, 2023