Saint David's Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint David's Castle |
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| Native name Irish: Caisleán Naomh Dáithí |
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View of castle from the east; its poor state of repair and boarded-up windows are evident.
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| Type | Fortified house |
| Location | Church Lane, Naas, County Kildare, Ireland |
| Height | 12 m (39 ft) |
| Built | 1210 |
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Imagine a castle built over 800 years ago! Saint David's Castle is an amazing old Norman castle located right in Naas, Ireland. It was built way back in the 1200s by the Normans, who were people from France and England who came to Ireland. This castle has seen a lot of history unfold over the centuries!
Where is Saint David's Castle?
You can find Saint David's Castle on Church Lane in Naas. It's right next to St David's Church. It's easy to spot this historic building in the town.
The Castle's Long History
Saint David's Castle, sometimes called King John's Castle, has a very old history. It was built around 1200, during the early days of the Normans in Ireland. King John of England even visited Naas in 1206 and again in 1210. During his second visit, he held a special meeting, almost like a parliament, in the town. Around this time, County Kildare became its own separate county.
The castle gets its name from Saint David, who is the patron saint of Wales. This is because many of the Normans who settled in Naas originally came from Wales.
In 1409, King Henry IV gave Naas its first special permission to become a "Corporation." This meant the town could govern itself more. A few years later, Naas was allowed to collect money called "tolls" at all the entrances to the town. This money was used to build strong walls and gates to protect the town.
Saint David's Castle was rebuilt and became an important part of these new town walls. It helped protect Naas from invaders.
Later, in the 1700s, the castle was changed into a home. The local church leader, called a rector, lived in the house during the 18th century.
What Does the Castle Look Like?
Saint David's Castle is a large building with three floors. It has a tall tower with a winding stone staircase inside.
The building has an interesting shape because it includes parts of the original tower house. It has a main section with two floors and three parts, and another section that sticks out, also with two floors. It's shaped a bit like the letter "L" and has a smaller section with a sloped roof and windows that stick out.
