Trim Castle, Meath, Ireland

Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, was constructed over a thirty-year period by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter. Hugh de Lacy was granted the Liberty of Meath by King Henry II in 1172 in an attempt to curb the expansionist policies of Richard de Clare, (Strongbow). Construction of the massive three storied Keep, the central stronghold of the castle, was begun c. 1176 on the site of an earlier wooden fortress. This massive twenty-sided tower, which is cruciform in shape, was protected by a ditch, curtain wall and moat.

Address

Frenchs Lane, Meath, Ireland

See all sites in Meath

Details

Founded: c. 1176
Category: Castles and fortifications in Ireland

More Information

heritageireland.ie
en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

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User Reviews

Alexander Rakovskiy (2 years ago)
Amazing place. We came there to see the Castle that we've seen in the Braveheart movie, but got much more. Beautiful grounds to have a walk, really nice and big (compared to others I've seen in Ireland) authentic castle. And last but not least - very cool guide Jimmy, who told us lots of details about the castle itself and many breathtaking and funny stories. I highly recommend visiting this place, and definitely visit it again myself.

Susan Henkel (2 years ago)
At one time in history Trim Castle was the largest fortification in Ireland. Buy tickets to see the Keep with a guided tour, we missed out as they were sold out for the 4:45 tour. The grounds are free to visit and there are informational signs. Easy parking nearby and within walking distance of shops.

Sun'J शर्मा (2 years ago)
Nice place, pay parking available and plenty of places nearby to eat. The castle can be covered in 30 mins and the walk around the castle in perhaps another 20 mins There is a guide tour, did not opt for it. As a stand alone trip may not be worth it. Is good for a quick stop.

Morgan Pabst (2 years ago)
My favorite castle in Ireland!! Our first stop and a fantastic place to visit. Easy access and parking, lots of little cafes nearby, and beautiful grounds. Its well maintained and has amazing employees working here! Its free to see the grounds but i recommend taking the tour inside, especially on a windy day. Awesome memories here, i cant wait to return one day. Thank you!!

Nicolas Martinez (3 years ago)
A significant and massive piece of Irish History well worth the visit. A guided tour with the very knowledgeable and witty guide Brenda were very well spent 5 euro. Trim itself is a very charming place and its several church ruins are also worth the walk all the way to the eastern side of the town.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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Church of St Donatus

The Church of St Donatus name refers to Donatus of Zadar, who began construction on this church in the 9th century and ended it on the northeastern part of the Roman forum. It is the largest Pre-Romanesque building in Croatia.

The beginning of the building of the church was placed to the second half of the 8th century, and it is supposed to have been completed in the 9th century. The Zadar bishop and diplomat Donat (8th and 9th centuries) is credited with the building of the church. He led the representations of the Dalmatian cities to Constantinople and Charles the Great, which is why this church bears slight resemblance to Charlemagne's court chapels, especially the one in Aachen, and also to the Basilica of San Vitale in Ravenna. It belongs to the Pre-Romanesque architectural period.

The circular church, formerly domed, is 27 m high and is characterised by simplicity and technical primitivism.

Trim Castle