Ireland’s Manliest Statue: Sixmilebridge, Co Clare

In what is probably the manliest sculpture in Ireland, artist Shane Gilmore gives us a shirtless, limestone lad marching unimpeded through the waters of the O’Garney River carrying the heavy tools of millwork, thus giving the artwork it’s title, The Miller Returns. The reference comes from 17th Century settlers of Dutch origin who started a mill on the river.

The strongman proved its brawn in 2009 when the statue held its ground as flood waters threatened to take the artwork downstream.

• Artist’s Website: Shane Gilmore
• Wikipedia: Sixmilebridge

Written by Liam Hughes

Liam splits his time between the US and County Tipperary, Ireland. In addition to providing private tours of Ireland, he spends much of his time hunting for broken dishes which he crafts into beautiful shard jewelry. Liam’s Tips | Website