Castlemartin

On a former demesne, c. 100m W of the N-Flowing River Liffey. A medieval church (KD028-022----) stands c. 275m to the NE. The castle was the property of Arnold Fitz Eustace le Poer by 1317, and in 1448 it was unsuccessfully attacked by Cathal O'Connor Faly. It was subsequently burnt in 1647 before being recaptured and destroyed by Colonel Hewson (Tickell 1955, 271-2; 1958, 308, 316-7). Partial remains are incorporated into the basement an early 18th-century house, and comprise a rectangular structure (int. L 10.7m; Wth 5.2m) of uncoursed limestone rubble, into which a later partition wall has been inserted. The present doorway is probably original and there are at least two, blocked, loops with deep splays. A barrel vaulted ceiling bears traces of wicker centring. (Bence-Jones 1978, 72; Meagher 1979-80, 86). Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy Date of upload: 26 November 2012

Built by the Fitz Eustace le Poer family by the early 14th century, Castlemartin was held by Arnold Fitz Eustace le Poer by 1317. It is remembered for its association with this prominent medieval family and its strategic location near the River Liffey.