Irish Star

Inside the unique 12th Century Irish castle on the market for the same price as a New York apartment

Irish Star logo Irish Star 03.05.2023 21:02:23 Katie Gallagher
Blackwater Castle

A 12th-century Irish castle is currently on the market for $2.2 million - and some New Yorkers think it is a steal.

Blackwater Castle is a huge historic property in Co Cork, that boasts nine bedrooms, six reception rooms, a holy well, a professional kitchen, and access to a private river.

Steeped in heritage with a history that extends back some 10,000 years, the castle has played host to several sieges and nobility throughout the ages, as well as visits from famous faces such as Michael Jackson.

For all the latest news straight to your inbox, sign up for our FREE newsletters here.

And now you can get your hands on it for an asking price of ?2 million ($2.2 million), which isn't far off the price for a two-bed apartment in Manhattan at the moment.

The 60-acre grounds has been on the market since last year, with Irish estate agency Sherry FitzGerald.

They have listed it as a 'true medieval site of architectural importance' with many special features, including an ancient promontory fort dating from the late Bronze age and Iron age.

Habitable sections of the castle date from the early 15th century, making Blackwater Castle one of the oldest habitable houses in Ireland.

The 60 Acres of grounds spread across mature Irish woodlands in Cork, with the River Awbeg running through the estate.

Architectural features include a 12th-century round tower, a 15th-century tower house, watch towers, Sheela na Gig, and defense walls.

The castle has hosted nobility throughout the centuries, being a center for hospitality from past to present and home to Gaelic Chieftains and Norman Lords.

It remains a sought-after location with more recent visitors including President Michael D Higgins and The King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

Less welcome visitors in the past include Sir Walter Raleigh who captured the castle in 1580 and Oliver Cromwell, who laid siege to the castle in 1649.

Once home to the Viscount of Fermoy and the Lords of the Barony of Fermoy, this magnificent mansion is now a unique monument of significance.

The site's history spans thousands of years, originally populated during the early Mesolithic period. There is further evidence that the site had been occupied during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age too when it was known as the fortress of Dún Crúadha.

Blackwater Castle is also a site of spiritual significance as below the castle near the River Awbeg is the Holy Well of St. Patrick.

The south of Ireland is dotted with castles, and while some of these are now little more than romantic ruins, others, such as Blackwater Castle, are still thriving.

The castle is currently run as an exclusive wedding and banqueting venue with many international clients falling in love with the beauty of the location.

The estate agents added: "The castle is an ideal home to enjoy a piece of Irish history and be at one with the tranquillity of the peaceful setting of this property."

The castle is on the N72, equidistant between Mallow and Fermoy, and just over one hour from Cork International Airport.

READ NEXT:

Head 'beyond the trees' and witness Wicklow from above on a breathtaking trail

Travel: Take a walk on the wild side at Ireland's most northerly point

Billie Eilish turns heads with stylish Irish design at the Met Gala

Paul Mescal and Jessie Buckley in talks to star in new Shakespeare film

For the latest local news and features on Irish America, visit our homepage here.

jeudi 4 mai 2023 00:02:23 Categories: Irish Star

ShareButton
ShareButton
ShareButton
  • RSS

Suomi sisu kantaa
NorpaNet Beta 1.1.0.18818 - Firebird 5.0 LI-V6.3.2.1497

TetraSys Oy.

TetraSys Oy.