KILLARNEY

Located in the County of Kerry, Killarney is at the heart of the very beautiful and spectacular Southwest of Ireland. Also known as ‘The Town in the Park’, Killarney town is surrounded by 26,000 acres of National Parkland, including three stunning lakes. Killarney, one of Ireland's jewels and busiest tourist towns has many beautiful sites including Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and the Killarney National Park and is often referred to as the gateway to the Ring of Kerry.

Ross Castle is situated on the edge of Lough Leane one the lower lakes of Killarney National Park, 1.5 miles south of Killarney within the Kenmare Estate. It is a square tower house with bartizans, or overhanging turrets, on two of the tower's corners and two (of the original four) round towers. The castle is surrounded by parts of a square bawn or defensive wall. The most important room of the castle is the Great Hall situated on the top floor with large windows, fireplace, kitchen and minstrels' gallery. Ross Castle Killarney was probably built in the late 15thcentury.

Postcrossing postcard received from Brian

VICTORIA

Victoria is the provincial capital of British Columbia - Canada's most westerly province. It is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. In the city centre, the narrow streets are lined with handsome 19th century stone buildings, and great baskets overflowing with flowers grace and lampposts. It will charm you with its colonial heritage, beautiful world famous gardens, and its inner city harbour which is the focal point of the city. The Parliament buildings themselves overlook the harbour which is  a bustle of activity year-round. Every year the city of Victoria is adorned with millions of flowers, enhancing its reputation as Canada's "City of Gardens".

PARLIAMENT BUILDINGS, VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
 

Construction of the current Parliament Buildings started in 1893 and they were officially opened on February 10, 1898. The style of the Parliament Buildings has been described as ‘free classical’ and ‘Romanesque.’ The roof is capped by 33 copper domes of different sizes. On top of the central dome, stands a gold plated, two-metre tall statue of Captain George Vancouver. Each night, the buildings are illuminated by more than 3500 energy-efficient light bulbs.

To visit the Parliament Buildings, go to Parliamentary Tour Office

Postcrossing postcard received from Katie