Kilbolane Castle facts for kids
Kilbolane Castle is an old fort located on Kilbolane Hill in Milford, County Cork, Ireland. It was built sometime in the 1400s or 1500s. The castle was designed in a style from the 1200s, featuring tall walls, round guard towers, and a moat (a deep, wide ditch, often filled with water, surrounding a castle). This style was similar to other castles like Liscarroll Castle and Ballincollig Castle.
Contents
What is Kilbolane Castle?
Kilbolane Castle stands on a hill, making it a strong defensive spot. Its design, with high walls and round towers, was common for castles built by the Normans. A moat around the castle would have made it even harder for enemies to attack.
Who Owned Kilbolane Castle?
The land where Kilbolane Castle stands was once owned by the church, specifically the Bishop of Cloyne, back in 1291. The castle itself was likely built by the De Cogans family.
Later, the castle became property of important families like the Earls of Desmond and a branch of the Fitzgeralds called the Fitzgibbons. In 1587, a man named Hugo Cuffe was given the castle, but he couldn't control the area well. So, in 1590, it went back to the Fitzgibbons family through Sir William Power, who was married to Helena Fitzgibbon.
What Happened to the Castle?
Kilbolane Castle faced a major challenge in 1642. During the Cromwellian war, Cromwell's army attacked and destroyed much of the castle. Only two of its towers remained standing after the attack.
Over time, parts of the castle grounds were used for other buildings. In 1695, Captain John Nicholls took over the east tower and built a small house next to the castle wall. His grandson, John Bowen, later started building a new house called Kilbolane House nearby. A new church was also built in 1832, with help from Rev. J. Bruce and the Ecclesiastical Commissioners.
Kilbolane Castle Today
In 1897, the ruins of Kilbolane Castle were bought by David O'Leary Hannigan. Today, the south tower and the west wall of the castle are still standing. The Board of Works helps to maintain these historical remains. When you look at the castle from the southwest, you can still imagine how grand and impressive it once was, with its tall walls and strong towers.
