Tyrrellspass
Castle dates back to 1411. This is the only remaining
castle of the Tyrrells, cousins of William
the Conqueror, who came to Ireland in 1169. It was home
of the Tyrrells of Fartullagh. Richard Tyrrell, associated
with the battle of Tyrrellspass 1597 is the most famous
of the extended Tyrrell family.
It
was built circa 1411 and was extensively restored in
the 1970’s
The
castle is approx 20 metres high and follows the general
pattern of tower houses, stone
built, essentially
defensive and comprising a series of superimposed
chambers.
The original spiral staircase and one of the original roof beams dating from
1280 can still be seen today. Alongside the entrance door is a murder hole
through which intruders could be attacked.
During
the Cromwellian invasion of 1650, it is said the castle
occupants suffered a great deal and many were
executed… |