Roscrea, Co. Tippeary

Dominating the heart of Roscrea town this 13th century state-of-the-art royal castle is a polygonal fortification with curtain walls, two D-shaped towers and a formidable gatetower which served as the principal residence. The original fortification was a wooden motte and bailey, built in 1213. Around 1281 the stone castle was erected; it was later altered and the gate tower heightened. It fell into disuse following the Williamite wars.