17 Aug Castle Matrix, County Limerick
This stronghold in Rathkeale, County Limerick was erected in 1440.
It was built by James Fitzgerald, Earl of Desmond.
Fitzgerald held control over Cork, Limerick, Kerry, and Waterford for over 50 years.
It guards the passage of the River Deel with its eighty-foot-high tower.
The castle is very impressive and worth seeing on any tours of Ireland.
The tree grove at Matrix still retains fine examples of most Irish tree species.
The next family to occupy the castle was the “Southwells” in around 1580.
They were known as the people who established Methodism in Colonial New York.
They were also famous for giving “Irish” nationality to the Virginia potato.
Contact Ireland and Scotland Luxury Tours for specialised trips.