As most people already know, castles are everywhere in Ireland, so much so that they serve as a kind of trademark. They give testimony to the ancient past, to battles fought and to a land that has endured. Here is a small sampling of the castles to be found in Ireland.

Adare Castle

Located in County Limerick, this Anglo-Norman castle is a magnificent and massive structure built sometime during the thirteenth century. Corner turrets project from its sides and it has curtain walls built during the early 1200s. Today, the structure suffers from natural deterioration, but plans are being made to restore it to its once formidable state.

Ballylee Castle

The famous Irish writer, W.B.Yeats, purchased and restored this popular sixteenth century castle located in Galway. Literary critics claim the castle inspired his poetry and still inspires those who visit. The original windows still exist throughout most of the upper levels.

Carlow Castle

While there is little left to Carlow Castle, located in Carlow County, it is living testament to the Norman rule that once swallowed Ireland. Today, only the western wall and two towers remain of Carlow.

Connagh Castle

Connagh Castle is one of Ireland’s more imposing castles, rising as it does from a high cliff in county Cork. Launching itself eighty-five feet above the cliffside, Connagh castle and was built in 1550. Unlike many others from the same era, this structure remains in good condition. The structure features stories which are connected by a magnificent winding staircase.

Dunsoghly Castle

Located in County Dublin, Dunsoghly Castle still retains its original, medieval trussed roof. Amazingly, the same family lived in the castle from the time it was built around 1450 until 1870. Most historians consider Dunsoghly to be an excellent example of architecture during the Middle Ages.

Ross Castle

This fifteenth century castle was built on Killarney’s Lower Lake. No setting is more appropriate for a castle. The castle was home to the ancient kings of Munster and the structure’s colorful history continued through up the time of Cromwell and beyond.

Tully Castle

Tully Castle, in County Fermanagh has a history steeped in tragedy. Notably, during the 1614 rebellion it was destroyed on the inside and left abandoned. It has been restored to a large degree by the Irish government.