Necarne, Victorian castle in Irvinestown, Northern Ireland.
Necarne is a Victorian castle in Irvinestown featuring a two-storey facade with Tudor-Gothic design elements throughout its structure. The interior incorporates stone walls and classical Corinthian columns that blend architectural styles in an unexpected way.
The castle was built in 1619 by Scottish planter Gerard Lowther as a fortified residence in the region. Major renovations between 1830 and 1835 under architect John B. Keane transformed its appearance and structure significantly.
During World War II, the castle functioned as a hospital for American and British soldiers, becoming an important part of local wartime experience. This role as a medical facility connected the building to the community's shared memories from that period.
The castle grounds now operate as an equestrian center managed by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Visitors should expect that the site is actively used for horse-related activities and plan accordingly.
The contrast between the castle's outer appearance and interior is striking - the rustic facade conceals refined classical columns and detailed architectural work inside. This unexpected blend of Victorian and classical elements in a single building creates a memorable architectural surprise.
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