Ardee Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ardee Castle |
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| St. Leger's Castle | |
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| Location | Ardee, County Louth, Ireland |
| Built | 15th century |
| Owner | State |
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Ardee Castle, also known as St. Leger's Castle, is a strong medieval tower house in Ireland. It was built in the 15th century. For a long time, it was used as a prison. Later, it became a courthouse for the town of Ardee. It served as the local court until 2006. This castle is one of the largest medieval tower houses in Ireland and Britain. The castle was first built by Roger de Peppard in 1207. However, most of what you see today is from later times.
Contents
What Ardee Castle Looks Like
The castle is a tall, rectangular building. It has four floors. There are small towers, called turrets, at two corners. These are at the north-west and south-west sides. The main entrance was well-protected. It had a "machicolation" outside. This was an opening where defenders could drop stones or hot liquids on attackers. Inside, there was a "murder-hole." This was another opening to drop things on anyone who got past the first defense.
The ground floor has a rounded ceiling. This is called a barrel vault. To go up to the other floors, you use a staircase. This staircase is inside the north-west turret.
The castle has been used for a very long time. Because of this, most of its windows have been changed. They were updated over the years. However, some old windows still remain. You can see a special twin-light window on the ground floor. Three single, narrow windows are also on the fourth floor.
The Castle's History
Early Days and Conflicts
St. Leger's Castle was built in the 15th century. John St. Leger built it. It was an important stronghold. It helped defend an area called the Pale. The Pale was a part of Ireland controlled by the English. Over the years, different groups fought over the castle. The O’Neills, an Irish family, and the English often battled for control.
Royal Headquarters
Even King James II used the castle. He made it his headquarters. This was before a big battle called the Battle of the Boyne. This battle happened in 1690.
The 1641 Rebellion
In 1641, Sir Phelim O’Neil took control of Ardee town. He set up the Irish Army headquarters there. But when his army retreated, the English Forces took back the town. Sir Henry Tichborne led the English. They placed soldiers in the castle. O'Neil's rearguard, the soldiers protecting the retreat, were defeated.
Where to Find Ardee Castle
St. Leger's Castle is located right on Castle Street. You can find it in the town of Ardee.
See Also
- Ardee
- Ardee Community School
