Why People Kiss the Blarney Stone The Blarney Stone is one of Ireland’s most famous legends. Located high on the battlements of Blarney Castle, this piece of limestone draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. According to folklore, kissing the stone grants the “gift of the gab”—the ability to speak with charm and eloquence. The tradition dates back to the 15th century, when an Irish king was said to have gained persuasive powers after kissing the stone. To take part in the ritual today