Welcome to the heritage of Laois, a part of Irelands Ancient East, with 5,000 years of history in a lush, green landscape, told by the best storytellers in the world. Learn the stories of a place and youll come to understand the soul of its people. From ancient high kings to modern day poets, saints and scholars to ramblers and fishermen, Irelands Ancient East pulsates with legendary tales. With our audiotrails as your guide, youre about to prepare for a real life journey through this mystical place. These trails tell the story of Laois, from the early Christian monks who built monasteries at Aghaboe and Clonenagh, to the Norman knights who defended the Castle on the Rock of Dunamase and from the desperate people who found refuge in Donaghmore Workhouse to the modern-day gardeners who create havens for wildlife within their walls.