What is recorded here

Shandon Castle stood near the Old Butter Market with a strange Z-shaped body and projecting towers at opposite ends. Ruined by 1581 but rebuilt soon after, it kept a martial presence on the Cork skyline until decay erased its stones. Men may have watched the river or argued borders from those towers, yet no wall or gate remains to mark the exact spot.

Known as Shandon Castle; mentioned in Barry's 1531 grant and named 'Ye L. Barris Castell' on Pacata Hibernia map (c. 1585-1600); in ruins by 1581 but apparently refurbished/rebuilt shortly afterwards (Bradley et al. 1985,96). Hardiman (c. 1601), Philips (1685) and Storey's (c. 1690) maps locate castle near where the Old Butter Market now stands. Maps show castle was of Z-plan, with main rectangular block running E-W and projecting towers at NW and SE ends (ibid). No visible surface trace. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Shandon Castle in Cork City was built by the Barry family in the late 15th or early 16th century and is mentioned in a 1531 grant. It is remembered for its historical association with the prominent Barry dynasty and its depiction on the Pacata Hibernia map, reflecting its significance in the medieval landscape of Cork.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.