Bunratty Castle--A Visit to Ireland's Past

Rising seemingly out of the River Ratty, a tall edifice of grey stone commands instant attention. Bunratty Castle may not be the grandest of castles in Ireland, but it is by far one of the most interesting.

Built in 1425 by the clan MacNamara, it was inhabited shortly after completion by the O'Briens. But before the MacNamaras or the O'Briens, the spot was a fortified Viking settlement, founded sometime in the 900's. After the Vikings came the Normans. In the 1270's Thomas de Clare built the first stone fortification at Bunratty. Being in a strategic location on the River Shannon, good for trade and other endeavors, the castle drew plenty of unwanted attention through the centuries. If the walls could talk, they would tell tales of bloody battles, and violent murders during the struggle between the Norman de Clares and the Thomond O'Briens. The original MacNamara structure was destroyed and rebuilt over the years, as many as five to eight times, to the point the original builders might not recognize the building that stands proudly today.

The O'Briens lived in and controlled the Bunratty castle and town until 1720 when the Studdart family came into possession of it. The Studdarts lived there until the early 1800's, when they built near-by Bunratty House and abandoned the castle. Bunratty castle fell into disrepair until 1954 when Lord Gort purchased it and completely restored it to its former glory, filling its chambers and halls with a collection of some of the finest fourteenth to eighteenth century antiques.

Today Bunratty is one of the Shannon area's greatest tourist attractions. During the day, for a nominal fee, visitors can wander through the halls, towers and twisting staircases. After a leisurely tour of the castle, there is still the folk park. At the foot of Bunratty is a recreation of a traditional Irish town from the 1800's. A walk through the town is both educational and fun. Each of the cottages is filled with era typical furniture, dishes, and decorations. From the farm house kitchen, aromas of baking bread or other Irish delights waft through the rooms, drawing the hungry for a sample.

In the evening it is time to stroll back to the Castle. The tradition of the Earl of Thomond, known during his time for his generous hospitality, lives on. In the Great Hall a grand banquet is served, twice nightly, to accommodate all who can afford the extra extravagance. Visitors enjoy a typical mediaeval dinner, served by maidens in traditional garb, and entertained by harpists and court jesters. Oh, and leave your silverware at home. At Bunratty, in true mediaeval fashion, you get to eat with your fingers.

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