Cahir Castle is located on a rocky island on the River Suir in the centre of Cahir town, County Tipperary. It is one of Ireland’s largest and best preserved castles.
This was part of one of the tours I booked and we came together on a private tour and just before sunset and it was very beautiful.
The guides working there knew so much and gave us a lot of information regarding the history and story of the castle. I really enjoyed my time here exploring the room and grounds. I also walked around a bit outside in the park behind and took some really nice pictures.
History;
An imposing 13th-15th Century structure, Cahir Castle was skilfully designed by Conor O’Brien to be a state-of-the-art defensive castle. Appearing to grow from the actual rock on which it stands, the castle has been the scene of sieges and bombardments for centuries.
The powerful Anglo-Norman family, the Butlers, came into the possession of the castle in 1375. The castle was captured three times in its history: it fell to Devereux, Earl of Essex, in 1599 after it had been battered for three days with artillery; it surrendered without a fight to Inchiquin in 1647; and again to Cromwell in 1650.
Over the centuries the Butlers considerably rebuilt and extended their stronghold. However, by 1599, the castle had reached its present appearance, with the only subsequent alterations taking place in the 1840s.
In 1961, the last Lord Cahir died and the castle reverted to the State. The castle retains its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. Today, the castle also features an excellent audio-visual show which informs visitors about its...
Read moreCahir Castle is truly one of Ireland’s hidden gems and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply breathtaking scenery. Situated on a small island in the River Suir, the castle is not only one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland, but also one of the most atmospheric.
Dating back to the 13th century, Cahir Castle was originally built by the powerful Butler family. Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous battles and sieges, yet remains remarkably intact. The fortress showcases classic Norman architecture with massive stone walls, a formidable keep, towers, and a moat. Walking through its halls and courtyards truly feels like stepping back in time.
Inside, the castle offers an informative audiovisual presentation and exhibits that tell the story of its rich past. You can explore rooms with ancient artifacts, climb narrow spiral staircases, and imagine what life was like during medieval times. The guided tour is also worth taking if you're interested in hearing about the castle's military significance and historical context in more detail.
Beyond the castle walls, the views are absolutely stunning. The surrounding river, lush greenery, and quaint town of Cahir provide a perfect backdrop for photos and peaceful reflection. It's a fantastic place for history buffs, families, or anyone wanting to experience Ireland’s cultural heritage.
Highly recommended — a place that blends beauty, history, and...
Read moreCahir Castle, located in County Tipperary, Ireland, is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in the country. Here is a detailed review of Cahir Castle:
Historical Significance
Cahir Castle dates back to the 13th century and has a rich history. It was originally built by Conor O’Brien, Prince of Thomond, and later expanded by the Butler family, who were significant Anglo-Norman landowners. The castle played a key role in several historical events, including the Irish Confederate Wars and the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland.
Architecture
The castle is renowned for its impressive architecture and fortifications. It features:
Massive Curtain Walls: Thick walls that provided robust defense against attacks. Tower Houses: Tall, fortified towers that served as both residences and defensive positions. Barbican: An outer defensive gateway. Great Hall: The central part of the castle, used for feasts and gatherings. Keep: The strongest part of the castle, used as a last line of defense.
Visitor Experience
Guided Tours: Knowledgeable...
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