This massive castle is probably the finest example of an Anglo / Norman castle in Ireland. The vast size of the castle combined with its impress state of its condition despite dating from 1196. The castle is situated in the town of Trim in County Meath and as you approach Trim from the Dublin size, it dominates the skyline and it comes as no surprise that it is the largest remains of a castle in Europe.

The castle has a total of 23 corners. The castle was mainly built by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter de Lacy. The castle is three storeys high and is designed in the layout of a cruciform and is unique because of this factor. The castle was built in three stages.

The recent history of the castle has a Hollywood feel to it as the castle featured extensively in the film Brave Hearth which was directed and starred Mel Gibson as William Wallace who was a Scottish man who successfully stood in opposition to the throne of England and its power over Scotland. William Wallace is successful in uniting the Scottish in battle during the 13th Century as they attempt to overthrow English rule.

Trim Castle sits on the banks of the River Boyne which although situated over 40km from the Irish Sea, was accessible by boats during Medieval times. There has been recent controversy surrounding the castle as the construction for a five storey hotel situated beside the castle was approved by Martin Cullen, the then Irish Environment Minister.

Colm Brady
http://www.thrifty.ie/
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Picture: Trim Castle Ireland