Constructed more than eight hundred years ago by the Anglo-Norman John de Courcy, Carrickfergus Castle has a long history as being the center of a struggle of power for control of an important port. The castle was attacked at different points during its history by the French, Irish, English, and Scots. Until 1928, the castle has seen more than seven hundred and fifty years of continuous military occupation. In the year of 1928, it was given to the Ministry of Finance to be preserved as an ancient monument.
Carrickfergus Castle's days of use, however, weren't over. The castle served as a shelter during air raids throughout World War II. Historical displays are now housed within the castle, in addition to cannons dating back to the seventeenth century through the nineteenth century. Visitors to Carrickfergus are welcome to explore the dark corners and large hall of the castle, and imagine what life may have been like in the fortress long ago. The castle features dungeons, ramparts, and winding staircases that include trip steps designed to stop any invaders.
The amazing castle has long been an iconic symbol of the town of Carrickfergus. It has been its brooding presence and strength for eight hundred years, and a constant part of the history of the town. Carrickfergus Castle is the best-preserved example remaining, even by standards of today, on the island of Anglo-Norman military construction. The castle offers an impressive and imposing sight on the shores of Northern Ireland.
Surrounded on three sides by the sea, the massive basalt rock of Fergus was an ideal spot for a military base for the Anglo-Norman invaders of King Henry of Ireland. In 1178, John de Courcy began the construction of the inner ward and keep. The successor of King Henry, John, took direct control of Carrickfergus Castle by 1210, and strengthened its defenses by building a middle ward. Hugh de Lacy, the Earl of Ulster commenced the construction of the castle's outer ward, as well as the portcullis and gatehouse, in 1226. The construction of Carrickfergus Castle was finished by 1242, and is still seen today much as it was back then.
The castle quickly became a significant strategic military asset. Anyone wanting to control Ireland during the following six centuries considered it a key target. The garrison both withstood and sometimes succumbed to various sieges from the Scots, the local Gaels, the French, and rival English kings. Carrickfergus Castle transitioned to a military prison during the early 1800's. For about a century more, the castle remained as a military armory. The castle was used as an ordnance store and a garrison during World War I.
Staff at Carrickfergus Castle offer tours of the castle, as well as provide expert knowledge that give visitors a unique look into the local life dating back to the Anglo-Normans. Self-guided tours are also a choice for guests. A guide for the complete range of the history of Carrickfergus is available for visitors to help them explore all of the town's important historical sites during their visit, from the twelfth century castle to its twentieth century industrial history.
Marine Highway, Carrickfergus, United Kingdom, Phone: 0-28-93-35-82-22
