Powerscourt Estate

Places to See | Co.Wicklow, Ireland

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Where Powerscourt House stands today there was once a 13th century medieval castle, owned by the Le Power Family from which ‘Powerscourt’ takes its name. Powerful Irish families including the O’Tooles and the Fitzgeralds battled for possession of this historic house in Ireland and its lands over the succeeding centuries.

In 1603 a new era began at Powerscourt, when Richard Wingfield was granted Powerscourt Castle and its lands as a reward for his military achievements by Queen Elizabeth. The story goes that Marshall Wingfield visited Queen Elizabeth after battle to pay his respects. The Queen said to him: “Well Sir Richard, what is to be your reward?” He bowed, and said “The scarf that Your Majesty wears will be sufficient reward for me.” Upon which the Queen placed the scarf over his shoulder. In addition to the scarf, Richard was knighted and received Powerscourt Estate as his reward. His descendants were to remain at Powerscourt for over 350 years.

Renowned as one of the great parks and gardens of Ireland, these days, Powerscourt is  popular and scenic place to visit in Co. Wicklow.

Address: Powerscourt Estate & Gardens Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

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