Combining archaeology, historical geography, history and literature, this book explores the settlement history of Lough Ree through the centuries. Themes include place-names, mythology and literature, the architecture and context of ecclesiastical and secular buildings on the islands and surrounding shores, demesne landscapes, boating on the lake and modern island living. These authoritative studies of key themes associated with the historic settlement of this lakeland region are a valuable resource to inform future work on the heritage landscape of Lough Ree and the River Shannon. The book is part of a successful series of thematic essay collections produced by the Group for the Study of Irish Historic Settlement.