Enniscorthy Castle is an imposing Norman stronghold in the heart of Enniscorthy town. Originally built in the 13th century it has been ‘home’ to Norman knights, English armies, Irish rebels and prisoners, and local merchant families.
The castle was the site of many fierce battles during the Cromwellian years and was also used as a prison during the the 1798 Rebellion Rising. The nearby National 1798 Rebellion Centre tells this epic story, and is well worth a visit.
Enniscorthy Castle depicts the story of Enniscorthy town through the eyes of the castle, and how both have developed over the centuries. The exhibition also explores the 1916 Easter Rising in Enniscorthy, the only town to rise outside of Dublin.
The roof of the castle is also accessible (when on a guided tour) with spectacular views of the surrounding buildings and countryside including the historic Vinegar Hill, a pudding-shaped hill overlooking the town. Vinegar Hill was the largest camp and headquarters of the rebels of 1798 who controlled County Wexford for thirty days against vastly superior forces.
We found Enniscorthy Castle to contain layers and layers of enthralling history and would recommend adding this to your list of places to see if you happen to be staying in County Wexford.
Address: Enniscorthy Castle, Castle Hill, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Ireland
Antrim is the county town of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. Antrim is a small town not frequently visited by tourists, yet it is one of the more historic towns in Northern Ireland with many interesting sights and buildings of historic note.
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