Athlone Castle
Athlone, Co. Westmeath
Tel: 0902 94630
Athlone Castle sits on the banks of the River Shannon and provides panoramic views of the river
and the town. The stone castle was built in 1210 on the instructions of King John of England, replacing
a wooden structure that dated from 1129.
The Governor of Athlone, Col. Richard Grace, occupied the castle during the first seige of
Athlone in 1690 and the building also played a major role in the second seige of 1691. A large screen,
together with prints and engravings, tells the story of the seige and brings history to life.
For almost 300 years the castle served as an extension of the military barracks in this
garrison town, before being declared a public monument in 1970. A military exhibition with life size
models, illustrates the uniforms that would have been worn from the 17th century to the present day.
Also within the castle you will be able to follow the story of John Count McCormack, the
celebrated tenor who was born in Athlone, through an
audio-visual presentation and see many of his personal possessions.
A further presentation illustrates the flaura and
fauna of the River Shannon, the history and archaeology,
and the development of transport on the river. A tea room
above the old armaments store makes an ideal place for a snack
or light refreshments, and to admire the display of works
of art.
