Dungarvan Castle, Anglo-Norman castle at Dungarvan Harbor, Ireland.
Dungarvan Castle is an Anglo-Norman fortress standing at the harbor entrance with a distinctive polygonal central tower surrounded by walls and fortified corners. The site also includes 18th-century military barracks that now serve as exhibition spaces for visitors.
The fortress was built in 1209 as a strategic defense point to control the harbor entrance during Anglo-Norman expansion. Military barracks were added in the 18th century, marking a shift in how the site was used and defended.
The fortress reflects how Irish defense evolved through centuries of occupation and change. The exhibition inside tells the story of who lived here and what they protected.
The grounds are open seasonally with self-guided and led tours available to explore the castle and nearby areas. It helps to arrive early in the day to see all sections without feeling rushed.
The polygonal shape of the central tower is uncommon in Irish castles and reflects English military design from that era. This geometric style provided better defense from multiple angles at once.
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