Carraig Fheargus Traditional Cache
Cuilcagh: The cache owner is not responding to issues with this geocache, so I must regretfully archive it.
Please note that if geocaches are archived by a reviewer or Geocaching HQ for lack of maintenance, they are not eligible for unarchival.
Cuilcagh - Community Volunteer Reviewer for Geocaching HQ (Ireland)
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Difficulty:
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Size: 
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Cache is a tube containing only a log. Bring a pen to leave your mark.
Situated on the north shore of Belfast Lough, a small town began to grow at Carraig Fheargus after John De Courcey built his castle in about 1178. Between 1228 and 1242 Hugh De Lacy strengthened the castle and built the outer ward. Strong town walls were added in 1608 by Sir Arthur Chichester, governor of the castle. Parts of these walls, including the North Gate still stand today.
With almost 1000 years of war and peace behind it, Carrickfergus is a ‘must see’ destination for lovers of history. For not only is it one of the oldest towns in Northern Ireland, but it has some of the finest Norman architecture in Europe, as exemplified by its indomitable castle. This magnificent structure, built in the 12th century by John de Courcy, commanded access to Belfast Lough, and the land approaches into the walled town that developed beneath its shadow.
Indeed, Carrickfergus still has part of these original, historic walls. Built in the early 17th century, they are excellent examples of Jacobean building, and excavations in the last few decades have yielded man artefacts that provide a profound insight to the life and times of the town’s inhabitants.
A striking feature of the landscape from land, sea and air, Carrickfergus Castle greets all visitors with its strength and menace. It represents over 800 years of military might. Besieged in turn by the Scots, Irish, English and French, the Castle saw action right up to World War II. Today it is maintained by the Environment and Heritage Service and can be enjoyed by visitors wanting to learn more about its history or just looking for a fun day out in a unique setting.
Carrickfergus castle was a key to the Anglo-Norman hold on Ulster, started by John de Courcy, conqueror of Ulster, between about 1180 and his fall in 1204. It was captured by King John after a siege in 1210, and the Middle Ward may date from after that event. The Outer Ward was probably added during Hugh de Lacy's lordship, between 1228 and 1242. During the Edward Bruce invasion the English retreated to Carrickfergus after the battle of Connor, and the castle fell to the Scots in September 1316, after a year's siege. It remained an important residential and administrative centre in the later middle ages but was not involved in warfare. Renewed building activity dates from the 16th century, when alterations were made for defence by and against artillery, but its importance declined and the castle was in disrepair when Schomberg took it for William III in 1690. It was last captured in 1760 by the French commander, Thurot, after a heroic defence by the garrison. After its use as a prison in the 18th century it was further strengthened and served as a magazine and armoury until 1928, whilst the Keep was used as an air-raid shelter in the 1939-45 war. This long and complex history is reflected in the extensive structures which remain.
When removing the cache container, please remember how it is hidden and replace exactly as this helps keep it well camoflaged, thank you.
Please be extremely careful when retrieving and returning the cache as this is a muggle rich environment.
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Fznyy ubyr sbe n fznyy pnpur. Bccbfvgr znaubyr