Kilbrittain Castle

Kilbrittain Castle lies in a field east of the village of the same name, in County Cork in Ireland.

Reportedly Kilbrittain Castle is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland. The first fortification at this site, an elevation in the landscape with views all around, may date back to 1035 when it was built by the O'Mahoneys. The Norman family de Courcy is thought to have occupied and extended the castle. In 1295 the MacCarthys defeated the De Courcys and took possession of the castle. In the 15th century the castle changed hands between the MacCarthys and the De Courcys several times. Finally the MacCarthy Reaghs became owners and the caste became their principal seat.

In 1642 the MacCarthys lost their lands because they were Royalists, and the castle was granted to the Hollow Sword Blade Company of London in lieu of a debt of the Crown's. After that it fell to ruin.

In the 18th century Kilbrittain Castle was purchased by the Stalwell family. They extensively restored the ruins of the castle and converted it into a house which burned down in 1920. From 1969 on, part of the castle was restored again by a Russell Winn as a residence.

At present Kilbrittain Castle is in use as a private residence, so it can not be visited. Too bad, I am curious about its interior.

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