Ross Castle

The exact date of Ross Castle's construction is not recorded, but it is believed that a member of the O'Donoghue clan had the fortress built in the late 15th century. In 1583, the O'Donoghues lost their property to the English Crown. Ross Castle initially passed to Donal McCarthy Mór, who mortgaged it to Sir Valentine Browne, who eventually became the owner. The fortress gained historical significance when it was the last Irish stronghold to defy Oliver Cromwell during the Irish Confederate Wars, though it surrendered without a fight. After the troops withdrew in 1825, the building fell into disrepair, as the then-owner Lord Kenmare had the roof removed to save on taxes. After several changes of ownership, Ross Castle became the property of the Republic of Ireland in 1979 and has since been extensively and faithfully restored.

Ross Castle fortress is located in Killarney, County Kerry (Ciarraí), in the Munster (An Mhumhain) region of Ireland, at an elevation of approximately 21 meters above sea level.

Today, Ross Castle is accessible to visitors and offers insights into 16th and 17th-century life through its preserved furniture and furnishings. It also serves as a starting point for boat trips to the islands in Lough Leane, where remnants of medieval monasteries can be found.

• Drishane Castle (Castle), approx. 33.4 km away
• Carrignacurra Castle (Ruin), approx. 36.4 km away
• Carrigaphooca Castle (Ruin), approx. 37.6 km away
• Staigue Fort (Fortress), approx. 42.4 km away