rock of dunamase

First settled in the 9th century when a hill fort was constructed. In 845 the Vikings of Dublin attacked and there is no clear evidence of 10/11th century habitation.
A castle was built in late 12th century, most probably by Strongbow whose daughter and heir married William Marshal Regent of England. they had five sons who died without issue so the lands were divided among their five daughters but by 1350 the castle seems to have become a ruinous shell.