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• Discover the fascinating history of Kilkea Castle. An imposing medieval fortress constructed nearly a millennia ago, this spectacular destination was once the ancestral home of the mighty FitzGerald clan. The FitzGeralds of Kilkea Castle were part of an ancient Irish dynasty, who reigned as the Earls of Kildare for centuries.
• Admire the unique carvings of monkeys scattered throughout the structure. The animal is the central component to the FitzGerald family crest, as many legends abound of how a pet monkey saved John Fitzgerald, the 1st Earl of Kildare, from a fire when he was a baby. The most prominent carving is located near the central chimney.
• Gaze upon a wonderful 16th-century chapel while walking through the grounds of Kilkea Castle. The building itself is located within the castle’s ancient cemetery where generations of the FitzGerald family have been buried. Dozens of unique carved stones reside within both the graveyard and chapel, including a stone plaque depicting a mermaid.
