Ballymoon Castle

Ballymoon Castle, a National Monument situated near Bagenalstown in County Carlow, dates from the 13th century and is thought to have been built by Roger Bigod or a member of the Carew family. The castle's imposing square courtyard surrounded by 8-foot-thick granite walls rising 20 feet high, combined with its massive gatehouse, reflects an ambitious design never fully completed, creating a distinctive architectural statement. Three corners feature projecting square towers while the gatehouse displays an distinctive arched gateway, and the castle remains accessible to visitors free of charge via a small wooden bridge, inviting exploration of this enigmatic medieval fortress.