Though no visible traces remain of the original fortress, this site holds centuries of Irish history within its stones. The castle belonged to the Fitzgibbon family, better known by their evocative title of the White Knights, a powerful Anglo-Norman dynasty who controlled vast swathes of land across Munster from the 13th century onwards.

Records from 1583 paint a modest picture of the castle in its later years, describing a structure with one hall, three chambers and three cellars, all enclosed within defensive stone walls. This relatively simple layout suggests the building had already seen better days by the late Tudor period, perhaps reflecting the declining fortunes of many Irish castles as military technology and political landscapes shifted.

The castle’s military significance became apparent during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland when Lord Broghill captured it in 1650, marking the end of its role as a Fitzgibbon stronghold. Following this turbulent period, ownership passed to the Fennel family, who likely built the country house that now stands in ruins on the site. These layered remains tell a broader story of Ireland’s changing social order; from medieval fortification to gentleman’s residence, and ultimately to romantic ruin, each phase reflecting the island’s complex colonial and post-colonial history.