The bottom line
This is a military installation in the first place, and Athlone Castle allows the visitor to be sure of this. At first glance, all notions of a romantic fairytale castle are dispelled. At second glance, you realize that protecting the important Shannon Crossing is the reason the castle is here. And it certainly seems suitable for this task even today, although the new Athlone Bridge further afield could tempt any would-be invaders. But the strategic loss of the castle is the gain of the visitor, the surrounding streets invite you to walk.
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Pros
- Sturdy defensive structure towering above (and dominating) Shannon’s crossing.
- The museum contains several diverse sections of local and historical interest.
- Beautiful views of Shannon and Athlone Town.
Cons
- There is no real history of the castle itself tangible.
- Transparencies in audiovisual presentations must be renewed.
Description
- Athlone Castle started out as a typical medieval motte and bailey castle, strategically located in Shannon.
- Various reconstructions and extensions almost completely obscure the medieval origins.
- Today’s castle is essentially a Napoleonic-era fortification with earlier foundations.
- The surrounding town of Athlone offers scenic walks.
Guide Review – Athlone Castle (County Westmeath)
One caveat is appropriate: Athlone Castle has been rebuilt so many times that it is no longer a medieval fortress, today it is more a defensive fortress from the Napoleonic era. A treasure for military historians, a little disappointment for romantics. Until 1970 the castle was still used by the Irish army… Athlone has been a garrison town for over 300 years and still has the oldest working barracks in Europe (dating back to 1697).
The museum in the castle is surprisingly short on the history of the fort itself … but as if to compensate for this, there are several quite distinct sections that follow from a brief introduction to Athlone Town:
- The Siege of Athlone
The failed siege of 1690 and the successful siege of 1691 by Willamite troops form the most exciting parts, with a well-organized audiovisual presentation and some life-size wax works. - Athlone’s military history
A room dedicated to Irish soldiers through the centuries, again using life-size dolls. - John Count McCormack
The life and career of Athlones’ famous son, tenor John McCormack (1884-1945), is highlighted with a waxwork that bursts into song. - Shannon’s story
An exhibition that highlights Ireland’s important waterway.
However, a slight disappointment may be created by the visual material presented: many transparencies have a visible aged and lost color and must be urgently replaced.
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