Ireland’s best-preserved medieval banqueting hall

This hall was built by Thomas ‘the Ape’ FitzGerald in the 13th century. By the 15th century, it was used as a major venue for frequent and lavish banquets by the Earls of Desmond. Life however wasn’t always a party as it has been sacked, destroyed, and rebuilt many times. James and Garret Fitzgerald, Earls of Desmond were killed here as were members of the Knights Templar. During the Elizabethan period, 3 major battles were fought here and Cromwell’s general Ireton also ransacked the place in 1651. The hall with its oak gallery has been fully restored and is now regarded as being one of the finest examples in Ireland.

Thanks to ShutterBug Infinity for informative video