Swords Castle
Swords Castle, located in the town of Swords, County Dublin, is a significant historical landmark in Ireland. Built in the 13th century, it has stood the test of time and remains one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the country. Over the years, it has served many purposes, from being a military fortress to a private residence and even a courthouse. Today, Swords Castle stands as a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. This thesis aims to explore the rich history of Swords Castle, its architectural significance, and its impact on Irish culture and heritage.
History of Swords Castle:
Swords Castle was built by the Anglo-Norman lord, John Comyn, in the 13th century. It was strategically located on a high ground overlooking the town of Swords, making it an ideal defensive fortress. The original structure consisted of a square-shaped keep, surrounded by a moat and curtain walls. Over the years, various additions and renovations were made to the castle, giving it its unique appearance. It was also home to several notable figures, such as the Archbishop of Dublin and the Talbot family, who played a significant role in Irish history.
Significance of Swords Castle’s Architecture:
Swords Castle is a prime example of medieval military architecture in Ireland. Its design and layout were carefully planned to ensure maximum defense against attacks. The castle’s walls were built with thick layers of stone and fortified with towers and battlements, making it impenetrable. The keep, the central structure of the castle, was used as a residence for the lord and his family. It also served as a place of refuge during times of conflict. The castle’s architecture is a testament to the technological advancements of the time and provides valuable insights into medieval life in Ireland.
Swords Castle’s Role in Irish Culture and Heritage:
Swords Castle has played a significant role in shaping Irish culture and heritage. It has witnessed many historical events, including the Norman invasion and the Anglo-Irish wars. The castle was also a site for many important political gatherings, such as the Parliament of Swords in 1641. In the 19th century, it was used as a courthouse, where many trials were held, adding to its historical significance. Today, the castle serves as a cultural center, hosting various events and exhibitions that celebrate Irish heritage and promote tourism.
Preservation and Restoration Efforts:
Over the years, Swords Castle has faced many challenges, including fires, neglect, and vandalism. However, thanks to the efforts of the local community and the Irish government, the castle has been successfully preserved and restored. In 1983, the castle was declared a national monument, and extensive restoration work was carried out to repair the damages. Today, the castle stands as a symbol of Ireland’s rich history and is a source of pride for the local community.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Swords Castle is a significant historical landmark in Ireland, with a rich history and architectural significance. It has stood the test of time, surviving countless conflicts and natural disasters, and remains an important cultural and heritage site in the country. Its preservation and restoration efforts have ensured that future generations can experience and appreciate this remarkable piece of Irish history. Swords Castle continues to be a source of fascination for visitors and a point of pride for the Irish people, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval history and architecture.
History of Swords Castle:
Swords Castle was built by the Anglo-Norman lord, John Comyn, in the 13th century. It was strategically located on a high ground overlooking the town of Swords, making it an ideal defensive fortress. The original structure consisted of a square-shaped keep, surrounded by a moat and curtain walls. Over the years, various additions and renovations were made to the castle, giving it its unique appearance. It was also home to several notable figures, such as the Archbishop of Dublin and the Talbot family, who played a significant role in Irish history.
Significance of Swords Castle’s Architecture:
Swords Castle is a prime example of medieval military architecture in Ireland. Its design and layout were carefully planned to ensure maximum defense against attacks. The castle’s walls were built with thick layers of stone and fortified with towers and battlements, making it impenetrable. The keep, the central structure of the castle, was used as a residence for the lord and his family. It also served as a place of refuge during times of conflict. The castle’s architecture is a testament to the technological advancements of the time and provides valuable insights into medieval life in Ireland.
Swords Castle’s Role in Irish Culture and Heritage:
Swords Castle has played a significant role in shaping Irish culture and heritage. It has witnessed many historical events, including the Norman invasion and the Anglo-Irish wars. The castle was also a site for many important political gatherings, such as the Parliament of Swords in 1641. In the 19th century, it was used as a courthouse, where many trials were held, adding to its historical significance. Today, the castle serves as a cultural center, hosting various events and exhibitions that celebrate Irish heritage and promote tourism.
Preservation and Restoration Efforts:
Over the years, Swords Castle has faced many challenges, including fires, neglect, and vandalism. However, thanks to the efforts of the local community and the Irish government, the castle has been successfully preserved and restored. In 1983, the castle was declared a national monument, and extensive restoration work was carried out to repair the damages. Today, the castle stands as a symbol of Ireland’s rich history and is a source of pride for the local community.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Swords Castle is a significant historical landmark in Ireland, with a rich history and architectural significance. It has stood the test of time, surviving countless conflicts and natural disasters, and remains an important cultural and heritage site in the country. Its preservation and restoration efforts have ensured that future generations can experience and appreciate this remarkable piece of Irish history. Swords Castle continues to be a source of fascination for visitors and a point of pride for the Irish people, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval history and architecture.
Swords Castle, was well preserved until the end of the 19th century , with battlements, towers, and centre courtyards, covering about 0.5 ha. Its architecture is thirteenth century. The floors of rooms were supported by arched ceilings. The entrance gate is a perfect arch and a square window immediately above. The gate is flanked by two square towers lighted by slit windows. The top of each tower is flat, reached by a spiral stone stairs which comes outside just before reaching the top. The above photo shows the restoration work which has been completed at the front of the castle, [ The Castle Is Now Open To The Public 1-July-2015]
To the right of the gate are the remains of a Church with pointed windows. There is a remarkable window in one portion of the walls, where the stone sashes are done all in red sandstone. There is no historic tradition about this Castle. No battles were ever fought here. According to history, it was occupied by John Comyn, Archbishop in the eleventh or twelfth century. He may have been a Norman Bishop and came here in the early days of the occupation of Leinster by the Normans as it was the Normans who burned Swords to the ground on six occasions and nearby had a garrison. There are battlements and towers all around the castle, most of which have been beautifully restored on behalf of Fingal County Council. The work is being carried out by F.A.S which is a state training agency.
The work is likely to be completed around 2012 [my estimate] well, considering originally it took over 400 years co be built, we can wait another few years.
The perimeter measures just over 300 meters with just over half the restoration work completed. The remains of Brian Boro are believed to have brought here after the battle of Clontarf.
The work is likely to be completed around 2012 [my estimate] well, considering originally it took over 400 years co be built, we can wait another few years.
The perimeter measures just over 300 meters with just over half the restoration work completed. The remains of Brian Boro are believed to have brought here after the battle of Clontarf.
The Castle was owned by the Church Of Ireland and The Archbishops left Swords for the new palace which got built in Tallagh South County Dublin in 1324. The castle was sold to the Cobbe Family who also owned Newbridge House Donabate.
The castle was leased to Robert Savage for many years of the 20th century and was purchased by Fingal County Council in 1976.
The long term plan for the castle by Fingal County Council is to fully restore and show the castle off in all it's restored glory. The council have already taking in charge most of the buildings to the right of the front gate. When the restoration work has being completed these buildings will be demolished and a pedestrian walk way placed at the front and down North Street.
In my opinion it's not enough just to restore the castle walls, there is hugh potential for tourism in this project, think on the lines of Bunratty Castle Co. Clare with it's folk park and Medieval Banquet. There is hugh expense to the taxpayer in restoring Swords Castle and that expenditure needs to be recuperated. Place a traditional pub inside the grounds and also a visitors centre. Make the castle the central hub for visitors to North County Dublin, promote the arts ie. traditional Irish music.
The image below shows the recently restored work of the west side walk way which now includes a safety hand rail.
New Roof On Castle Chapel
The new roof is now completed on the old ruins of the castle chapel. Unfortunately new materials were used in the construction of the roof in the form of slates and terracotta ridge tiles. These materals were not in use hundreds of years ago so in keeping with the time period and age of the castle these slates and terracotta should never have been used. A thatched roof would have been more appropriate. With the front of the castle which faces Main Street now almost finished the former Ryans pub and the other derelict buildings which stretch 100 meters down North Street will be demolished.
The castle was leased to Robert Savage for many years of the 20th century and was purchased by Fingal County Council in 1976.
The long term plan for the castle by Fingal County Council is to fully restore and show the castle off in all it's restored glory. The council have already taking in charge most of the buildings to the right of the front gate. When the restoration work has being completed these buildings will be demolished and a pedestrian walk way placed at the front and down North Street.
In my opinion it's not enough just to restore the castle walls, there is hugh potential for tourism in this project, think on the lines of Bunratty Castle Co. Clare with it's folk park and Medieval Banquet. There is hugh expense to the taxpayer in restoring Swords Castle and that expenditure needs to be recuperated. Place a traditional pub inside the grounds and also a visitors centre. Make the castle the central hub for visitors to North County Dublin, promote the arts ie. traditional Irish music.
The image below shows the recently restored work of the west side walk way which now includes a safety hand rail.
New Roof On Castle Chapel
The new roof is now completed on the old ruins of the castle chapel. Unfortunately new materials were used in the construction of the roof in the form of slates and terracotta ridge tiles. These materals were not in use hundreds of years ago so in keeping with the time period and age of the castle these slates and terracotta should never have been used. A thatched roof would have been more appropriate. With the front of the castle which faces Main Street now almost finished the former Ryans pub and the other derelict buildings which stretch 100 meters down North Street will be demolished.
Swords Castle Is Now Opened To The Public
The Castle will be open from 10.00am to 6.00pm from 1st July 2015. Tours will be provided courtesy of Fingal Tourism subject to demand, who can be contacted on email [email protected] or by telephone 01 - 840 0891 or 01 - 890 5144
Swords Castle Wall
Swords Castle painting in Oils by Martin Dardis. The original measures 50cm by 40cm
|
Swords Castle Poem By Angela Koch Once upon a time in the province of Leinster built by the Archbishop of Dublin and his ministers there is the castle of Sword in all its glory so listen now to the castle’s fictive story. The Archbishop’s knights wore the newest iron dress and every morning they got their daily bless. Only the best fighters he took in his team and they survived the strongest battles in their dreams. The Archbishop with family and all his friends were celebrating every night without an end. The tables nearly couldn’t bore all the dishes, loaded with deer, hares and a lot of fishes. This life went on for over a hundred years while the folk lived in poverty and in fear. In the end no fish swam in the river any more, no offer of deer nor hare in the stores. The beautiful castle of Sword gone to rack all over the walls you could see big cracks The dust laid all over on shields and rusted iron-suits, on lances, arrows and bows they never did need. The Archbishop decided to leave this nasty place they built a new castle in Tallaght – the enemy to face. It was good for Sword – so the castle still is there while Tallaght-castle can’t be seen nowhere Sword has its castle even still, and it's old glory will be rebuilt. If you come around Sword one day take your time for a little stay! A primetime pre-election debate was held in the Castle Chapel on the 16th of February 2016 which was hosted by Miriam O'Callaghan. |
If you have any paintings or pencil drawing of places in Swords and would like them displayed on the site then send me a photo please
On the 17th of September 2018 the castle was used by the makers of the hit series The Vikings. Filming went on into the early hours of the morning. Swords castle has been used by film makers several times since it got it's new facelift.
Swords Castle In 2022
