My imagination ran wild when I stepped on the grounds of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in County Clare, Ireland.
Walking through the entrance felt like I was traveling back to an era with no modern conveniences. (Reality check: There are toilets with running water at this popular tourist destination). A winding path takes you by thatched-roofed cottages, where roosters crow and scamper. Various other farm animals such as pigs, goats, sheep, and geese also thrive here.
Amongst the farm cottages are a doctor’s house, a school and grocery store, a pub, and a blacksmith’s shop; the essentials of village life, all part of the Bunratty Castle realm, a magnificent feat of medieval architecture.
In 1250 , Norman invaders first built a wooden tower here as a defensive fortress. Then later, they built the stone castle. Throughout time, the castle has changed hands and been rebuilt four times during battles and squabbles involving the Irish, the Normans, and the King of England. Today, Clare County Council owns Bunratty Castle and it remains a national monument after being fully restored and furnished before opening to the public in 1962.
The Grand Hall is the most impressive room in the castle. Royal residents would host extravagant banquets here, and welcomed special guests and dignitaries. Original ornate tapestries from the 1500s hang on the walls. Antlers from Irish elk that used to roam the countryside also hang high as hunting trophies. Tall stained-glass windows bring in bright light.
An old Celtic symbol is etched on one of the walls next to a window. According to the guide who led our tour, the symbol blesses the castle with fertility. The symbol also has a mask, the guide said, to scare off evil spirits.
A narrow single-file spiral staircase goes all the way up to the castle’s observation deck. Along the way, you pass levels with servants quarters, Royal bedrooms, and salons restored with original furnishings from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Once you’re at the top level, there is an absolutely beautiful 360 degree view of County Clare’s countryside.
While you can’t book an overnight stay at Bunratty Castle, you can experience a night of revelry in medieval atmosphere. The castle regularly hosts four-course dinner banquets by candlelight, which are open to the public and include performances by costumed period actors and traditional Irish music.
Take A Video Tour of Bunratty Castle. Tap play In The Window Below
