While details of Saint Patrick's life are vague due to centuries of embellishment by storytellers, it is accepted that he was the patron saint of Ireland in the 5th century. The first Saint Patrick's Day parade was held in New York City in 1766 and over 100 US cities now hold parades on March 17th. According to legend, the Blarney Stone built into Blarney Castle in Ireland endows those who kiss it with the gift of eloquence, and it has attracted tourists wishing to kiss the stone for centuries.