Why this matters
Built by William Brabazon, Treasurer of Ireland, in 1535, Fassaroe Castle is remembered as a historic tower house reflecting the influence of English administration in Ireland during the early 16th century. Its strategic location overlooking the Dargle valley highlights its potential defensive and administrative significance.
What is recorded here
Situated on a SE-facing slope overlooking the Dargle valley. Built by William Brabazon, the Treasurer of Ireland, in 1535 (Fitzgerald, 1909-11, 129), only two walls (the W and S) of this granite-built tower house survive, although traces of the foundations of the other two can be identified. A substantial part of the barrel vault extends from the S wall over the first floor. Embrasures and aumbries survive at the ground- and first-floor levels in both walls. The barrel vault and the soffits of the embrasures retain traces of wicker centering. The doorway and stairwell were on either the E or N side and no trace of them survives.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Wicklow' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 17 December 2008
This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 120/1940).
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