In 1652, Ross castle was held by Lord Muskerry against a Cromwellian force of 1,500 foot and 700 horse soldiers

Ross Castle, standing on the shores of Killarney’s Lower Lake may be considered a fine example of an Irish Chieftain’s stronghold built during the middle Ages.

Reputedly built around the middle of the 15th century by the O’Donaghues, she contained square bartizans which were built in opposite corners of the castle. This allowed many varieties of missiles to be dropped from above onto enemy troops below.

The entrance door was unusual for an Irish castle. It was made of oak and was hinged from projected stone brackets; this allowed the soldiers within to defend the door from directly above.

The castle tower stands within a square bawn defended by round corner towers, two of which survive, the other two were removed in 1688 to make room for an extension, the ruins of which remain on the south side of the castle.

The castle was the chief seat of the O'Donaghue Mors, hereditary rulers of this district and descendants of the ancient kings of Munster. After the Desmond rebellion their lands were acquired by the MacCarthy Mors from whom they were purchased by Sir Valentine Browne, ancestor of the Earls of Kenmare.

In 1652, Ross castle was held by Lord Muskerry against a Cromwellian force of 1,500 foot and 700 horse soldiers, commanded by Edmond Ludlow. It succumbed to the onslaught after floating batteries were brought over land to bombard it from the lough as well as from the land.

In 1690, the Brownes who were living in the castle and of the old faith had their entire estates confiscated for supporting the Jacobite cause. It was not until 1720, that they managed to re-acquire the confiscated land. The castle remained in possession of the military and turned into a barracks.

Subsequently they built a grand new house a little further to the north, close to the town, and in time Ross castle was incorporated into the landscape as a pictorial feature.

Tourist Information

Opening Hours: April   Daily  10:00-17:00

May   Daily  10:00-18:00

June - August  Daily   9:00-18:30

September  Daily  10:00-18:00

October  Tues - Sun  10:00-17:00

Last Admission 45 mins. before closing

Admission Charges:

Adult: EUR 5.00   Group & Senior Citizen: EUR 3.50    Child/Student: EUR 2.00    Family Rate: EUR 11.00