Clonshire Castle

Clonshire Castle lies in the townland of Clonshire More, in County Limerick, in Ireland.

Clonshire Castle was founded sometime during the 13th/14th century. The manor of Clonshire was owned by the Bishops of Limerick from the early 13th century on, throughout the Middle Ages, until at least the early 17th century. In 1641, it was held by Jason Crowe and by Captain Piggot in right of his wife in 1655.

The castle was built on a low rise in a meadow, 300 meters from the east bank of the Clonshire River. At first, the castle probably consisted of only a 2-storey hall house or keep. In the 15th/16th century, a square tower of 5 stories, containing a spiral staircase, was added to the west side of the castle. Simultaneously, the castle itself was also raised and now still consists of 4 stories. A 3-storey structure was also added to the east side of the castle, but probably at a later date.

At present, Clonshire Castle is situated in a meadow used to graze the horses of the Clonshire Equestrian Centre. A beautiful ruin.

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