Irish Castles

Bunratty Castle - Bunratty, County Clare

Built in the 15th century, Bunratty Castle is a medieval fortress overlooking County Clare's beautiful River Shannon. Vikings built fortified settlements as early as 950, until they were defeated by invading Normans who built the next stronghold here in 1270.

Today's castle is actually the fourth or fifth built on this site and has massive stone walls 10 feet thick that soar more than five stories high. Bunratty Castle continues to be one of Ireland's top tourist attractions.

The most elaborate room can be found in the castle's Great Hall, and is decorated with extensive collections of Middle Age and Renaissance painting, furniture, and wall hangings. The Main Guard room features feasts twice nightly, complete with court jesters, Irish harpists, and meals created from medieval recipes.