ATHENRY CASTLE

If you are looking for a place to explore the rich history and culture of Ireland, you might want to visit Athenry Castle in Galway. This castle is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in the country, and it offers a glimpse into the life and times of the Norman lords who ruled over this region.

Athenry Castle was built in the mid-13th century by Meiler de Bermingham, a powerful Anglo-Norman baron who was granted a charter to construct his castle by Richard de Burgo, the Lord of Connaught. The castle was strategically located near a ford on the Clareen River, which was an important route for trade and communication. The castle consisted of a massive three-storey hall-keep, which served as the main residence and administrative center of the lord and his family. The hall-keep was surrounded by a curtain wall with towers and a gatehouse, which provided additional protection and defense.

One of the most remarkable features of Athenry Castle is the stone carvings that adorn the entrance and windows of the hall-keep. These carvings are examples of the School of the West style, which is unique to Irish castles and shows the influence of local craftsmen and artists. The carvings depict floral motifs, geometric patterns, and human faces, and they add a touch of elegance and beauty to the otherwise austere structure.

The interior of the castle is equally impressive, as it reveals the different functions and activities that took place within its walls. The basement was used for storage and as a prison, and it could only be accessed through a trapdoor in the ceiling. The first floor was the Great Hall, where the lord and his guests ate, drank, and entertained. The Great Hall also had a fireplace, a latrine, and a mural chamber, which was a private room for the lord. The second floor was the attic, where the servants and soldiers slept.

Athenry Castle witnessed many turbulent events throughout its history, as it was attacked and besieged by various enemies, such as the Irish clans, the English crown, and the Cromwellian forces. The castle gradually fell into decay and ruin after the 17th century, until it was restored by the Office of Public Works in 1990. Today, it stands as a proud symbol of Athenry’s medieval past and heritage.

Athenry Castle is open to visitors from March to November, and it offers guided tours, exhibitions, and educational programs. It is located in the center of Athenry town, which is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Ireland. The town has many other attractions to offer, such as the Dominican Priory, the Town Walls, and the Heritage Centre.

If you are interested in visiting Athenry Castle, for opening hours and prices, or for learning more about it, you can visit the website for more information. Athenry Castle is a must-see destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and architecture. It is a place where you can immerse yourself in the medieval world of Ireland and discover its stories and secrets.