Ross Castle

Ross Castle is a typical example of an Irish Chieftain's stronghold in the Middle Ages. It was probably built in the late 15th century by an O'Donoghue Ross chieftain. A barrack building was added on the south side of the castle in the mid 18th century.


It certainly looks the part. Ross Castle's recent history is, in some ways, just as interesting as its ancient history. A victim of the roof tax, it was left open to the elements for a long time. The owner eventually set the ruin up as a tourist attraction, filling in the windows of the barracks to resemble arrow loops.

Eventually the Castle and its lands fell into the hands of property developers who wanted to build holiday houses on the lake. One of the developers, however, had local family ties and felt that the castle should be preserved. He bought out the other developers and offered a deal to the state: if they faithfully restored Ross Castle, he would donate the castle and its extensive lands to the state in perpetuity. The OPW kept up its side of the bargain; painstakingly restoring the castle took over 20 years. Finally, the developer kept his side of the bargain as well, and Ross Castle became a heritage site located in the 10,000 hectare Killarney National Park.

Unfortunately, photography is banned in Ross Castle as well so I don't have any photos from the inside. So instead, I offer you this photograph from the grounds.