Athenry Castle
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| Athenry Castle | |
|---|---|
| Native name Caisleán Bhaile Átha an Rí (Irish) | |
| King John's Court Bermingham's Court | |
 | |
| Type | Tower house |
| Location | Court Lane, Athenry, County Galway, Ireland |
| Coordinates | 53°18′00″N 8°44′41″W / 53.299990°N 8.744619°W |
| Built | c. 1235–50 |
| Owner | State |
  Location of Athenry Castle in Ireland | |
| Official name | Athenry Castle |
| Reference no. | 406[1] |
Athenry Castle is a tower house and National Monument located in Athenry, Ireland.[2][3]
Athenry Castle is located off Court Lane in the eastern part of Athenry, on the west bank of the River Clarin. It is sited on a natural rise and defended a ford in the river.[4][5]
History
Despite being locally known as King John's Castle or King John's Court (after the Lord of Ireland 1177–1216), it wasn't built until twenty years after his reign.[6]
The original keep (constructed 1235/40) was low and squat, the roof being at the level of the present second floor. Meyler de Bermingham extended it c. 1250. In 1316 the castle was attacked, leading to the construction of city walls. In the 15th century the Berminghams moved from it to their town house near the market cross in the square. In 1596 (during the Nine Years' War) the castle fell into the hands of the O'Donnells.[7]
The battlements are 13th century and in the 15th century, these parapets were incorporated into gables for a new roof.[8]
The castle was restored in 2005.[9]
