Caislean Rathanain, County Kerry
Photo © Sharon Loxton, 13 August 2006
Caislean Rathanain, County Kerry
Photo © Sharon Loxton,
13 August 2006
The castle has a fantastic view of Ventry harbour. Originally a medieval rath (domestic ring fort) stood on this site. In the 15th century a Fitzgerald knight of Kerry built the castle. On 5th March 1602 Elizabethan forces took over the castle (the knights had become rebellious). Ultimately the castle was mostly destroyed in the Cromwellian wars 50 years later, although it remained as a diminished family residence until the 18th century. It is 40ft long and 20ft wide, and is of a 'tower house' type.