Ballycarbery Castle

Ballycarbery Castle lies in a field, west of the town of Cahersiveen, in County Kerry in Ireland.

Tradition has it that Ballycarbery Castle was built by one Carbery O'Shea, but it actually belonged to the Gaelic Lord of Desmond; the McCarthy Mor. There has been some form of residence at this site since at least 1398, when the death of a Taghd MacCarthaigh there was recorded. The present remains however date back to the 16th century.

The castle was occupied by the O'Connells in their capacity as McCarthy wardens. In 1596 possession of the castle passed to Sir Valentine Browne following the death of Daniel McCarthy Mor. In 1651-52 the castle was captured and subsequently slighted by Parliamentary forces when the Valentia Harbor was being fortified.

Ballycarbery Castle, originally a tower house, now has an L-shaped plan. It stands within the remains of a bawn, which was partially demolished in 1910.

Ballycarbery Castle is a very nice castle ruin. It is, however, not accessible as it is situated on private farm land. Near are Cahergall Stone Fort, Leacanabuaile Stone Fort and across the river are also The Old Barracks and the reconstructed Sive Stone Fort. All in all, a great area to visit.

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