Castleknock Castle
Castleknock Castle is a ruined Norman castle in the grounds of Castleknock College in Castleknock, Dublin, Ireland.
The Fort of Cnucha has a long history and is steeped with legend.
The current castle ruins have a history dating back to the Tyrrells of the 12th century, who were the first Barons of Castleknock. The first Baron, Hugh Tyrrell chose this site.
What remains of the ruins now is part of a polygonal shaped keep. This is surrounded by many trees, so from a distance the ruins are seldom visible except in winter.
The earliest still existing artistic drawing of the castle by Francis Place also shows it in ruins, but clearly far more complete than the present.
The mound it stands on is far earlier than the present Norman structure. There is also a motte constructed around the castle on the mound.
The castle was partially dismantled after the civil war of 1641 when considerable damage had been done to the castle. It was also the last rallying point for the forces of the last High King of Ireland, Rory O'Connor, in his vain attempt to drive the Gall from the area of Dublin in 1171.
It has been used in more recent times primarily as the burial ground for Vincentian priests.
There is also a small mound to the west of Castleknock College buildings known as Windmill Hill. There was never a windmill here and the structure upon it (now a water tower) is much more recent, having been built as an observatory by a Mr Guinn who was once an owner of the estate.
Books
- Dónal MacPolin and Peter Sobolewski, Blanchardstown, Castleknock and the Park, 2001, Cottage Publications ISBN 1-900935-22-8
- James O'Driscoll, Cnucha: A history of Castleknock and district, 1977, privately issued
References
External links
- History of Castleknock
- Excerpt from book on Castleknock by Jim Lacey
- Fort of Cnucha and its Successors
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