History of the Irish CastleInstead they were fortified homes for chieftains, or Anglo Norman settlers and were designed primarily for defence. Many of these castles are medieval in origin, dating from the 11th to the 15th century.
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Many castles found their demise after the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland. Cromwell's policy was to destroy the battlements of castles which of course were crucial to their defence, as well as the spiral staircases. With both of those actions, the castle was rendered useless.
There are lots of reasons for the ruins in Ireland. Many times the stones of an abandoned structure were reused for other buildings. Some buildings (particularly cottages) were abandoned during the famine, or abandoned because no one else wanted them. Rock of Cashel is a good example.
Due to Ireland being a place that was constantly war torn for centuries castles were constantly built, destroyed and then rebuilt. Ireland is also slightly less mountainous than Scotland so there was more land suitable for castle building.
Ireland is known for its castles. The Normans built most of the castles in Ireland between the 11th and 15th century. Some of the castles are still in tact and found new purpose such as Smarmore Castle. There are tens of thousands of castles spread over Ireland, most of them are ruins, but still worth a visit.
Europe is famous for its abundance of castles, many dating back to medieval times. With so many neighbouring nations, as well as the turbulent history of the last 1000 years, European countries needed to defend their territories and protect their people.
The castles are watch towers outside the city walls. The castle is Dublin Castle and is repeated three times because of the mystical significance of the number three. The castles are not castles but represent three gates into the ancient Viking city.
This is a little known fact; Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe. Wales' history has left a landscape scattered with Iron Age hill forts, Roman ruins and castles from Medieval Welsh princes and English kings.
The leaders of the states and territories within the Empire built castles to control their areas, for defence, and as centre of administration. Castles were a symbol of power! Castles in Germany were often built at strategic points, on top of a mountain, or at a place to protect an important trading route.
From fairytale castles to mighty fortresses, the Dordogne Valley is the proud owner of a stunning cultural heritage and some of the prettiest sites in France.
Whilst the exact number is not known, experts have estimated that Germany is home to over 20.000 castles. From castles that look like they come straight out of a fairy tale to medieval fortresses with moats, Germany features some of Europe's most impressive castles and palaces.