Nenagh Castle

Nenagh Castle is a fine example of a Norman structure, dating between 1200 - 1220. Its construction marked the beginning of the creation of Nenagh town.

There are 101 steps in total to reach the top of the tower, and it is five storeys high. The second floor is believed to have once been the main public hall, while the third floor was the lord’s private residence. What stands today is the last remaining tower of three, which were surrounded by a curtain wall. There would have also been a two-towered gatehouse, and it was likely defended by a moat.

The castle changed hands multiple times throughout its history, initially acting as the main residence for Theobald Walter, and was the seat of his ancestors, the Butler family, until the mid-14^th century. The Mac Ibrien family owned the building in the 15^th century, and was returned to the Butler’s in 1533.

In 1760, a farmer placed gunpowder in the wall of the castle in an attempt to get rid of sparrows that were nesting there and destroying his crops. His gunpowder idea only succeeded in blowing a hole in the wall.

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This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014