GC55E4G In Defence of the City (Traditional Cache) in Munster, Ireland created by batinahat and Stellapickle

This cache has been archived.

batinahat: It’s had a good run but I’m archiving all our caches in the city. Thanks to all the finders.

GC55E4G ▼

A cache by batinahat and Stellapickle Message this owner

Hidden : 5/22/2014

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: small (small)

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Geocache Description:

A cache highlighting King John's Castle, a 13th century Norman castle that has played a pivotal role in the city's history and continues to contribute to its prosperity today.

King John’s Castle is probably the best known tourist attraction in Limerick. It is a 13^th century castle that was built on the orders of King John of England. The Island on which the castle is situated, known today as King’s Island, has been a strategically important place since 922 when the Vikings occupied the site. The castle has stood the test of time, surviving no less than five sieges in the 17^th century. In 1791, the castle housed a military barracks which was home to British Army soldiers until the War of Independence and formation of the Irish Free State in 1922. In 1935, Limerick City was under pressure to build social housing but land within the city limits was scarce; the Corporation settled upon the land within the castle walls and built 22 houses there. The houses were demolished in 1989 to make way for the restoration of the castle as a tourist attraction. In 2012, the castle closed to the public for modernisation. It has since reopened and the revamp has been well received by tourists and locals alike.

We visited shortly after the castle reopened in 2013 and would highly recommend a visit! The views over Limerick from the highest tower in the castle alone make it worthwhile but the interactive exhibits and history are also excellent.

There are a number of parking options available in and around the city so I’ll just mention a few of the closest here – the nearest multi-story car park is Arthur’s Quay. There is also an official car park across the road from the castle but I don’t know what the charges here are. On street parking is available around King John’s Castle. The car park at the Potato Market is also convenient. The on street parking is probably best used in the evening or at weekends when it is more likely that spaces will be available and parking charges and time restrictions may not apply (check the signs near the parking bays).