The castle was built in 1446 by Cormac Laidhiv McCarthy (Lord of Muskerry) -- its walls are 18 feet thick (necessary to thwart attacks by Cromwellians and William III's troops). Thousands of tourists a year still visit the castle.  

The origins of the Blarney Stone's magical properties aren't clear, but one legend says that an old woman cast a spell on the stone to reward a king who had saved her from drowning. Kissing the stone while under the spell gave the king the ability to speak sweetly and convincingly.  

It's tough to reach the stone -- it's between the main castle wall and the parapet. Kissers have to lie on their back and bend backward (and downward), holding iron bars for support.  

Try it here with this "classy" copper Blarney Stone. 

Lie on your back, and bend backward to your monitor and "kiss the stone" (well OK, if you are a realist, kiss your monitor, it'll probably bring you better luck anyway!)  C'mon now - don't be a chicken DO IT!!!