Listowel Castle, Medieval castle in Listowel, Ireland
Listowel Castle is a medieval stone stronghold in County Kerry featuring two surviving square towers connected by a substantial defensive wall. This wall displays an unusual arch beneath the battlements, creating a distinctive structural feature visible from the exterior.
The stronghold was built as a medieval stone structure and served as a key defensive position in the region. It withstood a dramatic 28-day siege in 1568 when forces under Sir Charles Wilmot attacked during the First Desmond Rebellion against English rule.
The castle sits beside the Seanchai Literary Centre, which hosts exhibits about local writers and the history of County Kerry. Visitors can explore the connection between this medieval stronghold and the town's literary traditions.
Visitors can reach the upper floors via an external staircase to explore the interior spaces and enjoy views from above. It is best to visit in dry conditions, as the old stone steps can become slippery in wet weather.
Archaeological research shows that the original design of this stronghold followed architectural patterns similar to Bunratty Castle in a neighboring region. This parallel design suggests that comparable building methods or fortification concepts were widely used in the area.
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