Overview:

Corfe Castle in Ireland is a majestic ruin set within the rugged beauty of County Meath. Built in the 12th century, this stronghold once served as a royal residence for the legendary High King of Ireland Rory O'Connor. The castle is the focal point of a stunning landscape that includes scenic lakes, lush forests and ancient megaliths. Corfe Castle has been subject to centuries of conflict, with ownership changing hands several times over the centuries. Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination that remains a fascinating testament to its history. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Ireland
Prominent Features:

1. Impressive Norman Fortress: Corfe Castle is an extremely impressive Norman fortress that was built in the 11th century and stands atop a natural hill. It is a striking reminder of Ireland’s turbulent past. 2. Grand Keep: Corfe Castle’s Grand Keep is a large central tower, and the best-preserved parts of the castle. It is surrounded by a complex network of interior walls and external towers and walls, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sea beyond. 3.Ruined Cathedral: One of the most impressive features of Corfe Castle is the ruined cathedral that was destroyed during the English Civil War and now stands beneath the castle. 4. Garden and Parkland: The Garden and Parkland at Corfe Castle has been crafted to perfection. It is a perfect place for relaxation and exploration. The grounds are home to an array of exotic plants, water features and sculptures which bring added beauty to the castle 5. Museum and Exhibition Space: Corfe Castle is home to a museum and exhibition space which reveals the history, mystery and beauty of the castle. Here visitors can see the castle in its full glory with the aid of guided tours, audio visual displays and interactive elements. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Ireland.

History:

Corfe Castle is a ruined medieval fortification in County Wexford, Ireland. Built in the 11th century by the Normans, the castle is situated on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Wexford. Despite its age, the castle's walls are still standing and it is now one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. The castle was originally constructed by Strongbow, the leader of the Norman Conquest of Ireland, in 1169. Its strategic location made it a powerful symbol of Norman rule in the region and it was key to defending the port of Wexford. The castle was besieged several times during the following centuries, most notably by the Irish in 1264 and by Cromwell's Roundheads during the Irish Rebellion of 1649. Despite these sieges, the castle still stands today, albeit in ruins. Corfe Castle was an important centre of royal authority in Ireland, hosting two of Henry VIII's daughters, Mary and Elizabeth, in 1586. The castle was the formal residence of the Lord Deputy during the 16th century and in 1679, King James II himself stayed in the castle. The castle was finally abandoned after it was damaged by a gunpowder explosion in 1646. The subsequent repairs were too costly and the castle was left to ruin. Although it never regained its original splendor, it still stands as a symbol of the power of the Normans in Ireland. Visit one of the famous monuments of Ireland with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Corfe Castle was built in the 11th Century and became a Norman stronghold. 2. The castle was built on a natural mound with a deep-cut ditch separating it from the surrounding land. 3. It is possibly the most photographed castle in England. 4. The castle was seized by King John in 1203 and remained royal property until it was sold by Elizabeth I in 1572. 5. It is believed there was once a secret tunnel leading from the castle to the nearby village of Corfe. 6. It was the site of the gruesome murder of Edward of Westminster in 1483. 7. The castle was partially destroyed during the English Civil War. 8. It is now owned and run by the National Trust. 9. There are lots of myths and legends associated with the castle, such as the story of King John’s ghost. One of the historical monuments of Ireland, it tells the story of a bygone era