Athlone, Border town in County Westmeath and County Roscommon, Ireland
Athlone extends across both banks of the Shannon and sits at the border between County Westmeath and County Roscommon. The larger part of the settlement lies on the eastern side of the river near the outlet of Lough Ree, while residential areas and streets also occupy the opposite bank.
The construction of the castle by John de Gray in 1210 made the location a strategic control point at the Shannon crossing. The settlement grew as a trade and military center and maintained its role as a transport hub between east and west through the centuries.
The RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival brings theater groups from across the country to the Dean Crowe Theatre each May. Visitors experience contemporary Irish theater productions in a local venue deeply rooted in the cultural life of the region.
The center offers numerous shops, restaurants, and accommodation within walking distance of the river. Main attractions and public areas are distributed across both riverbanks, with bridges connecting the two parts and allowing easy exploration on foot.
Sean's Bar is recognized by archaeological research as the oldest continuously operating pub in Ireland, founded in the year 900. Visitors can see portions of the original wattle walls inside, which were uncovered and preserved during restoration work.
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