New Croagh Patrick pilgrim path to open after three years

It was deemed an impossible task.

The Sisyphean task included the removal of thousands of tonnes worth of rocks from the Holy Mountain to make it safe and accessible to walk along, reports RTE News.

The 4km 'Pilgrim Path' runs from the statue of St Patrick at the base of the mountain to the church at the top and the project's completion follows years of extremely hard work carried out by a team of people who made countless climbs up the Reek over the last three years.

The task, which was deemed impossible by some, has now been completed with the creation of the two metre path all the way to the top of the mountain near Westport in County Mayo.

Led by Matt McConway, the team consisting of Frank McMahon, Tulio d'Jesus, Bernard Burke, and David Doyle all worked tirelessly to complete the incredible path.

The group also shared videos to a YouTube channel called Climb The Reek as they documented their journey.

Tens of thousands of people climb the Reek each year and on Reek Sunday, during the final week of July, it is the most popular date of the year to do so with between 15,000 and 30,000 pilgrims participating in the walk to the top.

On Reek Sunday, many pilgrims climb the stony mountain in barefoot as an act of penance while others perform 'rounding rituals' which were formerly a key part of pilgrimage.

Overall, the project cost around €600,000 with 80% of the funding come via the Department of Rural and Community Development and the additional 20% coming from Mayo County Council.

There's no doubt that the new pathway will lead to even greater tourism for Mayo and will see many more people set foot atop Croagh Patrick.

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