Peel Castle, Medieval castle on St Patrick's Isle, Isle of Man
Peel Castle is a medieval fortress on a small island connected to Peel town by a causeway, with red sandstone walls enclosing multiple buildings and ruins. Inside the fortified walls stand the remains of residential structures, storage buildings, and religious spaces that once filled the enclosed area.
Norse King Magnus Barefoot began constructing the fortress in the 11th century, building upon existing Celtic monastic structures already present on the island. The fort grew over subsequent centuries into a major center of power and administration for the region.
The ruins of St German's Cathedral within the fortress show where religious life centered for centuries on the island. Visitors walking through can still sense the layout of the old church and understand its role in the community's spiritual life.
You reach the castle by walking across the causeway that connects the island to the mainland, a straightforward path open year-round. The site is best explored on foot, and visiting during warmer months makes walking around the ruins more comfortable.
Archaeological digs between 1982 and 1987 uncovered the grave of a woman buried with Norwegian coins and jewelry from around 1030. The discovery suggests strong trade and family connections between the island and Scandinavia during medieval times.
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