Enniskillen Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Enniskillen Castle |
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| Enniskillen, County Fermanagh | |
Enniskillen Castle 2011
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 Enniskillen Castle
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| Coordinates | 54°20′46″N 07°38′42″W / 54.34611°N 7.64500°W |
| Type | Castle |
| Site information | |
| Open to the public |
Yes |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1428 |
Enniskillen Castle is a historic castle located in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. It was first built a long time ago, in the 16th century. Today, this amazing castle is home to two museums. You can explore the Fermanagh County Museum and also a special museum for the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards and Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, which are famous army regiments.
Contents
History of Enniskillen Castle
Early Beginnings and Battles
A man named Hugh Maguire built the first castle in Enniskillen in 1428. This castle saw many battles over the years. In early 1594, Captain John Dowdall's soldiers attacked the castle. It fell on February 2nd after a short fight. Sadly, the people inside were killed after they gave up.
Later that same year, the castle was attacked again. But this time, help arrived and the siege was stopped. However, the castle finally fell to Irish forces in 1595. It stayed in Irish hands until the summer of 1602. Then, it was taken by Niall Garve O'Donnell, who was an Irish ally of the Crown.
Changes and New Owners
In 1607, Captain William Cole took charge of the castle. He made many changes and fixed it up. In 1609, he added a tower by the river on the south side. This tower is known as the Watergate. Cole bought the castle completely in 1623.
The castle was attacked again in 1641 by Rory Maguire during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. But this attack was not successful. During this time, the castle provided a safe place for Protestant settlers.
From Castle to Barracks
In 1796, the castle was changed into "Castle Barracks." This was done because there was a fear of a French invasion. In 1853, Castle Barracks became the home of the 27th Regiment of Foot.
The regiment moved to new buildings in St Lucia Barracks, Omagh in 1875. Later, in 1881, this regiment joined with others to become the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.
Other army groups continued to use the barracks. From November 1939, it became the home of the North Irish Horse. This was a Territorial Army unit, meaning it was a part-time army group. The barracks stopped being used by the military in 1950. After that, it was turned into a depot for the local council. Later, the castle was opened to the public as a place to learn about history.
Exploring Enniskillen Castle: Features and Collections
Castle Design and Architecture
Enniskillen Castle has two main parts. There is a central tower, called a keep, and a strong outer wall. This wall was made even stronger with small towers called Bartizans. The way the castle is designed shows strong influences from Scottish castles.
You can see this especially in the Watergate tower. It has two round towers, called tourelles, that stick out from the wall. These were built around 1609. Enniskillen Castle is now a State Care Historic Monument, which means it is protected by the government.
Museums and Exhibits
Today, the castle is home to the Fermanagh County Museum. This museum teaches visitors all about the history, culture, and nature of County Fermanagh. You can see exhibits about the area's very old history, its wildlife, and how people used to live in the countryside.
There are also displays about local crafts and Belleek Pottery, which is famous pottery from the area. You can also learn about the history of the castle itself and the important Maguire family.
The castle also has the Inniskillings Museum. This museum is dedicated to the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards. These are two famous army regiments with a long history.
Images for kids
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The courtyard of the Castle
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Reconstruction of the Castle
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The barracks was built inside the walls
See also
- Castles in Northern Ireland
