History

  Before talking about this castle and the magical atmosphere that it creates, it is useful to give the visitor a brief introduction about the village where the castle stands. As stated in [1], the population of Lisronagh today is a significantly small fraction compared to what was recorded in the 19th century and even during the 14th century, when the land belonged to the de Burgh family.
  It is thought [1] that a first castle in Lisronagh was erected by William de Burgh, founder of the House of Burgh in Ireland, the Anglo-Norman knight who came to Ireland in 1185 and to whom John, Lord of Ireland and later King of England, granted vast lands in Munster and Leinster [2]. However this building was demolished by Edmond Butler, eight Baron Dunboyne and Seneschal of Tipperary, in the 15th century [1].
  The castle we can admire today is a 16th century tower house probably owned by the Butler family at least up untill the late 17th century [1]. In more detail, it is recorded that the castle was held by Ellyn Butler, late Countess Dowager of Ormond and the Earl of Ormond in 1664 [3]. The reasons why it fell into ruin are not clear [1]. According Ordnance Survey letters dating 1840, we know that at least the ground floor of the tower house was inhabited at that time [3].
  Interesting details on the structure and the architecture can be found in [1, 3].
  And also a legend enriches the mysterious charm of Lisronagh castle, narrated in [4]. As it was said that a treasure was buried in the old castle, some men came to dig for it, till they eventually found the gold under a flag [4]. At that point, a soldier riding a horse appeared around the church beside the castle and, when he reached them, they hook holy water around [4]. As the horseman vanished, they restarted digging, till a bull showed up [4]. Scared after seeing the bull, the men ranway and came back the day after, but there was no sign of the hole they had been digging [4].

References


Other useful links

Tips

  We have to warn you right from the start, that walking to the castle might be challenging, as there is no car park available near the ruin. We had to park beside the church, up the road, and from there walk for a few minutes, but given that there is no footpath available, give yourself some safe space from the cars on the road.
  Once arrived, you will discover an enchanting spot. Don't get fooled thinking you can use the front door to get access inside, the actual entrance is through the north wall. The tower house though, is easily accessible, and both, ground and first floor can be visited.
  As you climb the staircase, through a small window, you can see the church and the adjacent graveyard. Despite the centuries that have passed, some of the windows, the murder hole, a fire place, and a small garderobe can still be easily recognised from the remains.