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Ardfinnan Castle, nestled in the picturesque landscape of County Tipperary, Ireland, has long been an enigmatic yet captivating historical site. This article delves into the intriguing history of Ardfinnan Castle, exploring its construction, purpose, and the many prominent figures who have contributed to its rich past. For those with a love of Irish history or simply...
Nestled in the heart of Connemara, County Galway, Ballynahinch Castle boasts a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 14th century. This enchanting castle has changed hands numerous times throughout its existence, witnessing the trials and tribulations of Irish history. This comprehensive guide delves into the captivating history of Ballynahinch Castle...
Leamaneh Castle, nestled in the beautiful County Clare, Ireland, is a historic site steeped in intriguing tales and captivating history. Often overshadowed by other more popular tourist destinations, Leamaneh Castle’s storied past deserves a closer look. This comprehensive guide will delve into the castle’s origins, the influential families that called it...
Blarney Castle, situated in County Cork, Ireland, is a historical fortress that attracts visitors from all over the world. Known for the Blarney Stone, the castle offers much more than just the gift of eloquence. This article delves into the intricate history of Blarney Castle, detailing its architectural evolution, the famous legends surrounding it, and its...
Genealogy research often feels like a treasure hunt, where each new piece of information unlocks a deeper understanding of your heritage. For those tracing their Irish roots, Irish Estate Records provide an invaluable resource. These documents offer unique insights into the lives of ancestors who lived in Ireland, sometimes as far back as the 17th century. This...
The surname Andrews, much like its close counterpart Anderson, signifies “son of Andrew.” The name, owing to the widespread veneration of Saint Andrew, a key apostle in Christian tradition, has its roots deeply embedded in early Christian Europe. Etymology and Meaning The name Andrew is derived from the Greek word “Andreas”, meaning...
Cloughoughter Castle, a picturesque ruin situated on a small island in Lough Oughter, Co. Cavan, Ireland, is a historical treasure that has captivated visitors and locals alike for centuries. The castle’s enchanting presence, combined with its rich history, makes it an essential destination for anyone interested in exploring Ireland’s past. This article...
The Bingham surname has its roots in English history, particularly associated with the toponym of Melcombe Bingham in Dorset. However, its significance in Irish history began with the arrival of Richard Bingham in the 16th century. Richard, hailing from Dorset, was appointed the governor of Connaught in 1584, marking the beginning of the Bingham family’s...
The Beary surname, primarily found in Ireland, particularly in Limerick and Tipperary, has a rich history. It is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Béara, closely related to O’Berry. This origin is intertwined with Irish culture and reflects the complex history of surnames in Ireland. Etymology and Meaning The surname Beary derives from the Norman surname de...
The Berry surname, with its origins in Ireland and the Isle of Man, is primarily an Anglicized form of the Gaelic Ó Béara or Ó Beargha, denoting a descendant of Béara, a personal name of unknown meaning. While predominantly of Norman origin, derived from the Old French “barri” (meaning “rampart”), it’s also associated with the Gaelic...