Black Castle — Attraction in The Municipal District of Wicklow

The Black Castle ruin stands on a rocky headland over the sea. There is a fine vantage point for views over the town and the coast of North Wicklow from the ruins. The Vikings were extremely active in the Wicklow Town area from around 795 and in 834 they plundered the Monastery at Glendalough.

In the same year they fortified a strategic rocky promonatory at the mouth of the Vartry River in Wicklow town. A castle was subsequently built now known as the Black Castle. There is no mention of the Castle in recorded history until 1174, following the Norman invasion. Between 1295 and 1315 the Castle was attacked and burnt down twice by the local...

County Wicklow is considered part of Ireland’s “Ancient East” and is full of historical sites, some dating back to the Bronze Age. The rough ruins in the photo are the remains of Black Castle, a coastal fort built in the 12th century to protect against attacks by the invading Normans, who were a relatively new threat to the island at the time. In the centuries that followed, Black Castle was the site of a series of sieges and battles, and by 1646 it was already in ruins. The castle’s appeal today is due to its evocative setting, where it stands like a crumbling tableau of the past over...

If passing through Wicklow town definitely recommend a stop here. Absolutely great view over the harbour and west with views of Dublin/wicklow Mountains. Nice walk above harbour and across to the castle yogether with some interesting history displayed about area. Beach close by is nice for a swim - a bit stoney but lovely clear water n u never know u might see one of the local seal population while u enjoy scenary but please ensure u respect their home n not disturb them 👍. Parking within easy walking distance together with a Portaloo in small car park. Definitely...