By Ben Kesp
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| Cloister View - Franciscan Friary |
A chance visit to a small town in West Limerick, Ireland, opened the door to a collection of wonderful buildings all from the medieval period. With a population of just over 1,100, Askeaton has certainly held its place in history. The town was once the home to the Munster Geraldines, the Anglo Irish Norman Earls of the Kingdom of Desmond. The current castle ruin that stands today right in the centre of the town was from Maurice Fitzgerald, 1st Earl of Desmond. The great hall can also be found, measuring 72 feet long with exceptional architecturally designed windows.
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| Castle Ruin - Earls of Desmond |
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| Hellfire Club Ruin |
Situated next to the impressive ruin of the castle, stands the ruin of the Hellfire Club or Gentleman’s club which was built in 1740. It was the second only club in Ireland, the other situated just outside of Dublin City. This was a place where wealthy men would gather to drink, gamble, orgies, use of prostitutes and other activities. The Hellfire Clubs were 18th century clubs found throughout Britain and Ireland.
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| Franciscan Friary |
Moving on from the castle grounds in the opposite direction is an impressive building to explore and that is the ruin of the Franciscan Friary. The friary was founded in 1389 and its cloisters are magnificently preserved. In 1579, the English Commander, Sir Nicholas attacked and burned the friary, killing many of the friars. Cromwell would later arrive in Askeaton and needless to say the friary was abandoned.
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| Internal Cloister View - Franciscan Friary |
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| Internal View Franciscan Friary |
Another interesting building is a tower that dates from 1298 and is supposed to be associated with the legends of the Knights Templar. The tower is located on the site of St. Mary’s Church. Prior to the building of the present church (1827), an original church stood on the grounds. It is stated that the Knights Templar had founded the original church. Whether it is true or not, today the old tower has its origins associated with a well known organisation.
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| Knights Templar Tower |
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| Rear of St. Mary's Church with older church remains and rear of the tower |
Definitely, Askeaton has an amazing collection of medieval architectural sites to be explored and enjoyed. I had not been expecting so much history in one small town, so it can surprise us what can be found in a place once we open our eyes and explore it!
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| Franciscan Friary |
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