You are here: home | irish history | normans | castles

History of Castles In Ireland

There are many Irish Castles in Ireland that are dotted across the countryside with some that lay in ruins and with others fully renovated and opened to the public. Most of the castles in Ireland had been built during the medieval times after the invasion of Normans but before hand when the Vikings had invaded Ireland lots of forts, round towers and fortifications were constructed to protect Viking settlers from other invading Vikings.

Defending Against Attacks

Fortifications and Irish Castles had been built in defense against attacks, raids and invasion that was a common occurrence in Ireland. Clan chiefs would have had sat on the thrones of castles in Ireland which would have been a main meeting place for villagers and market traders which sometimes were located beside Irish monasteries.

Castles in Ireland tell a long story of historic events such as who was the Chief of certain clans, what battles took place and which Irish Castles played an important role for the people of that time. They hold lots of magical Irish folklore such that of the Blarney Castle and the kissing of the Blarney Stone which brings thousands of visitors from around the world every year.

The Views Are Amazing

Most Ireland Castles were constructed in strategic places across the countryside and would usually sit on banks of rivers or Loughs and on top of large hillsides allowing an amazing view for miles around which is another factor in good defense for Ireland Castles.

It essential for anyone traveling to the emerald isle to visit an Ireland Castle to get a sense of the historic buildings and what Irish life could have been like living in one of these marvelous sites.

Vikings invasion on Irish soil
As the Vikings invaded and settled in Ireland they brought with them the need for better fortifications after all, the Vikings were better equipped and experienced in the arts of combat.

The Normans Attack Ireland
Although the Normans were an invading force they did help kick the Vikings out from major settlements but also brought with them better technology and better fortification designs such as the castles.