Castledermot
Castledermot (Irish: Diseart Diarmad, meaning "Dermot's Hermitage") is an inland town in the south-east of Ireland in County Kildare, about km ( mi) from Dublin, and km ( mi) from the town of Carlow.
Geography
The River Lerr (a tributary of the larger River Barrow, the second longest river in Ireland) flows through the town.
Demographics
The town numbers about 1500 people, but the population is growing rapidly (January 2006) due to massive development.
Places of interest
In the town there are different remains that include a round tower, two high crosses and the ruins of a Franciscan friary. km ( mi) away is Kilkea Castle, once the residence of the Duke of Leinster, but now a hotel and health farm. The castle was built by Hugh de Lacy in 1180, and later passed to the Fitzgeralds. Garrett Og Fitzgerald, 11th Earl of Kildare, is said to have practised magic in Kilkea Castle.
History
The earliest known Irish Parliament met at Castledermot on 18 June 1264. Also, the oldest intact window in Western Europe can be found in the town, being part of the ruins of a Franciscan Monastery. The window, although large, is only stone work. The glass, if ever there, is long gone.
Education
There are two schools in the town, the national school, and Colaiste Lorcain, both of which are located on the main street.
Sport
In terms of sports, Castledermot has achieved plenty of success: Gaelic football (men's and women's), hurling, Gaelic handball, soccer and cricket all experience success from under-age to senior level. Castle Villa, whose grounds are at Mullarney Park, have been Kildare senior league soccer champions on several occasions.
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