A visit to Ireland is a history buff’s dream come true, because there are so many wonderfully well preserved examples of medieval architecture to wander through and explore. If you are fascinated by what life would have been like in the Middle Ages, you can visit the stone steps, ancient battlements, and ornate rooms of many authentic castles. These buildings have been the setting for many important events within the history of Ireland, and many are open to the public to enjoy.
Here are a few of the best castles to visit in Ireland:
Blarney Castle
This famous Irish castle was build around 1446, for the MacCarthy Chieftans of Munster, and it can be found just outside of Blarney Village, near the city of Cork. The structure is now in partial ruins, but several rooms are accessible to view. The Blarney Castle is famous for its “Blarney Stone” which is fabled to give the “gift of the gab” to anyone who kisses its surface. Some believe that this stone is the Lia Fail, the magical stone on which Irish kings throughout history were crowned. To kiss the stone you must bend over backwards precariously over the parapet to reach it. While you are here, be sure to take a walk through the extensive gardens and visit the many strange natural rock formations such as the “Witch’s Cave” and the “Wishing Steps”.

Dublin Castle
This castle was the stronghold of British power within Ireland for over 700 years. Originally a 13th century Norman and Viking fortress, now only one tower remains of the original structure and an 18th century castle has been built on the site. Dublin Castle was once the residence of the official British viceroys in Ireland, and it is now used by the Irish Government. If you are a passionate history enthusiast, you will love the guided tour around the castle.

Cahir Castle
This is one of the largest and best preserved castles in Ireland, and can be found near Cahir town centre in South Tipperary. Built in 1142 by the Prince of Thomond, this castle has many fascinating chambers, spiral staircases, and high battlements to explore. Be sure to take one of the educational tours offered at the castle, which explain the fascinating history of the site.

Ashford Castle
Would you like to live in a medieval castle and experience what it would have been like to be a king or a queen? If so, book a stay in Ashford Castle, which is a beautifully restored castle built in 1228 which has been turned into a luxury five star hotel. Ashford Castle was originally the stronghold of the de Burgo family, back in the days when Ireland was a vast and untamed wilderness. This beautiful castle is a stunning place to stay, and it has hosted many famous guests throughout the years such as John Lennon, King George V, Oscar Wilde, Ronald Reagan, John Wayne, Brad Pitt, and U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy. If you are on a budget and don’t want to splurge on a night in these sumptuous surroundings, go ahead and visit the castle anyway so you can marvel at its amazing architecture.
These are just a few of the many beautiful castles that are waiting to be explored, so why not take a flight to Ireland and discover the fascinating medieval world of the emerald isle?
Simon Grant loves to write and currently contributes to a number of travel blogs and websites, including Time to Wander








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