Moorstown Castle, Medieval castle in County Tipperary, Ireland
Moorstown Castle is a medieval tower house with four stories and a distinctive circular shape, featuring a spiral staircase, multiple musket loops, and a fortified limestone gatehouse. The protective courtyard, known as a bawn, was enclosed with walls and provided additional defense for residents.
James Keating built the castle in the late 15th century, and it later passed through several hands before changing ownership again in the 1600s. This succession of owners shaped the property across generations.
The castle's name reflects a local family connection, and its round shape shows a deliberate departure from the rectangular towers that were standard across Ireland. Visitors can still observe this distinctive design choice when walking around the structure.
The castle sits on a small road away from major routes, so it is best visited by car or guided tour. The surrounding area is rural, so visitors should plan extra time for the journey.
The third floor once housed a dovecote where pigeons were bred for food, a feature that signaled wealth and self-sufficiency during medieval times. This practical addition shows how residents managed their own supplies.
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