Ferns Castle

It is believed that in the middle of the 12th century a castle built by Diarmait MacMurrough stood on the site of the present stone castle. In the 1170s a new castle was built at the site by the sons of Maurice Fitzgerald, but all trace of this castle has disappeared. It was probably replaced entirely by the stone castle that stands on the site today. About 1224 the present stone castle at Ferns was completed by Earl William Marshal the younger, Lord of Leinster, and in the early years was the stronghold of the Marshal family. Today much of the original castle has disappeared, but it is clear from what remains that this was a very substantial and imposing castle for its time. The castle consisted of a large rectangular block with round corner towers at each of the four angles. Two of these towers survive today, and in the eastern one is a finely preserved chapel for the former residents of the castle. Originally the castle was surrounded by a large moat, large sections of which were cut through solid rock. Ferns Castle is one of a number of historic sites in Ferns. Others include St. Mary's, a 12th century Augustinian Priory; the remains of a 13th century cathedral, part of which is incorporated into the present Church of Ireland Church; St. Peter's, a small nave and chancel church; and some High Crosses and parts of crosses, which stand in the cathedral grounds. Please note that many of these monuments may be on private land and may not be publicly accessible. When setting out to visit monuments please ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Access to monuments without Visitor Services may be across uneven ground which may not be suitable for everyone and, in particular, wheelchair users.