Nestled in the idyllic town of Ferns in County Wexford, Ferns Castle is an impressive reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of ancient Celtic Ireland. Built in the 13th century by William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, Ferns Castle served as a powerful stronghold for centuries. Today it remains one of the most impressive examples of medieval architecture in Ireland.
| History | Invasion | Construction | Visiting |
However, the history of Ferns Castle goes back much further than its 13th-century construction, and its story is one that spans centuries of political, cultural, and religious change in Ireland.
Early History
The history of Ferns Castle dates back to the early days of Celtic Ireland, when Ferns was the capital of the Kingdom of Leinster. In the 6th century, Ferns was ruled by the legendary King Brandubh, who was known for his fierce resistance to the invading Vikings. Under Brandubh’s leadership, Ferns became an important political and cultural center, and it remained so for centuries to come.
Despite its importance, Ferns was not immune to Viking raids, and the town was repeatedly attacked and pillaged by Viking invaders. One of the most famous raids took place in the 10th century, when the Vikings captured the town and held it for several years. During this time, the Vikings built a large fortified settlement on the site of what is now Ferns Castle, which served as a base for their raids throughout the surrounding countryside.
Norman Invasion
In the 12th century, Ireland was invaded by the Normans, who were led by William the Conqueror’s descendants. The Normans quickly established themselves as a powerful force in Ireland, and they set about building a series of castles and fortifications throughout the country. Ferns Castle was one of these, and it was built by William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, in the 13th century.
Castle Construction
The construction of Ferns Castle was a remarkable achievement of medieval architecture and engineering. The castle was built using a combination of local stone and imported limestone, and the walls are up to two meters thick in places. The design of the castle also incorporated a range of defensive features, including narrow windows and arrow loops, which provided protection against attacks.
The Marshall family played a prominent role in the history of Ferns Castle, and they continued to own the castle for centuries after its construction. The family was heavily involved in the politics of medieval Ireland, and they served as Lords of Leinster for several generations. In addition, members of the Marshall family were known for their patronage of the arts, and the castle played host to a range of cultural events, including music and poetry competitions.
Religious Significance
Ferns Castle also has a significant religious history, and it was an important site for the early Christian Church in Ireland. In the 6th century, St. Edan, a disciple of St. Patrick, established a monastery in Ferns, and he is said to have performed several miracles in the area. The monastery was destroyed by the Vikings, but it was later rebuilt and became an important center of learning and spirituality.
Like other historic sites in Ireland, Ferns Castle has undergone extensive efforts to preserve and protect the site for future generations. In recent years, a major renovation project has been undertaken to restore the castle to its former glory, including the repair of the roof and the installation of new interpretive displays for visitors.
Visiting Ferns Castle
For those interested in visiting Ferns Castle and exploring the rich history of this remarkable site, there are a number of options available. Guided tours of the castle are available, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the history and significance of this remarkable structure. Alternatively, visitors can explore the castle on their own, taking in the awe-inspiring beauty and wonder of this ancient monument at their own pace.
While Ferns Castle is a well-known and much-loved site for those interested in medieval history, there are also many lesser-known facts and stories associated with this remarkable structure. For example, it is said that the castle was once home to a secret passage that led to the nearby church, allowing the residents of the castle to attend Mass without being seen by their enemies. In addition, the castle was also the site of a daring escape by one of its most famous residents, Alice de la Roche, who is said to have escaped from the castle disguised as a man.
Places to Stay near Ferns Castle
