Athlone is a town straddling the border of County Roscommon and County Westmeath in Ireland's Leinster region. Located on the River Shannon near the southern shore of Lough Ree, it is the second most populous town in the Midlands Region with a population of 22,869 according to the 2022 census.
The town's history is marked by significant medieval and early modern events, including two brutal sieges in the 1690s. At its center stands Athlone Castle, a Norman fortress built in 1129 on the banks of the River Shannon. The castle features an interactive exhibition spanning 5,000 years of local history, documenting the town's past from Viking raids through medieval conflicts. Across from the castle, the Luan Gallery presents contemporary art from local and international artists, housed in a modern building offering panoramic views over the water.
Athlone offers visitors walking paths along the Shannon Banks and a distinctive "Left Bank" district featuring restaurants, pubs, and independent shops situated in ancient streets and alleyways. The town's Main Church contains stained glass windows by Harry Clarke Studios, reflecting the area's cultural heritage. The combination of historical landmarks, contemporary galleries, and riverside setting makes Athlone a notable destination in Ireland's Midlands.