Dunasead Castle, Medieval castle in Baltimore, Ireland.
Dunasead Castle is a rectangular two-story fortified structure with an attic space, positioned on a sandstone ridge overlooking Baltimore Harbor. The building displays typical features of medieval defensive architecture, with its compact form and strategic coastal location.
The original structure was built in 1215 by Anglo-Norman settler FitzStephens and suffered destruction in 1305 when the MacCarthys attacked it. Afterward, the O'Driscoll clan took control and made it a significant stronghold for their coastal operations.
The name Dunasead comes from Irish and means Fort of Jewels, reflecting the historical connection between this castle and the O'Driscoll clan. Locals still recall how this fortress held great importance to the families who ruled these coastal lands.
The site functions as a private residence, though visitors can explore certain portions to see the medieval architecture up close. It makes sense to check ahead about access, since its current use as a home may limit visiting times.
The castle features defensive elements including narrow windows and a bartizan at the southwestern corner that reflect medieval combat strategies. These architectural details show how castle builders protected against attackers in very specific ways.
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