Trim Castle - Caislean Bhaile Atha Troim

Trim Castle (Irish: Caisleán Bhaile Átha Troim) is located in the town of Trim, County Meath, Ireland (Irish: Baile Átha Troim, Contae na Mí, Éire). This castle was built from the early 12th century on the site of an earlier wooden structure and stands on the south bank of the River Boyne (Irish: An Bhóinn or Abhainn na Bóinne). The site was chosen because it is on raised ground, overlooking a crossing point on the river. It was buily by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter over a period of thirty years and is the largest Anglo-Norman fortification in Ireland.

The central fortification is a large three-storey, 20 sided keep. This massive 20-sided tower was protected by a ditch, curtain wall and water-filled moat. Further additions to the castle took place at the end of the 13th century and the beginning of the 14th century.  After the 16th century the castle was allowed to fall into disrepair until some refortification took place in the 1640's. The castle is now owned by the he Irish Government and is managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW). Walkways have now been built within the castle to allow for a better appreciation and view over its interior. 

Link: Heritage Ireland Trim Castle OPW and image courtesy of their website.