Kinnitty Castle

http://www.kinnittycastle.com Description: Former ancient castle, now 37-room luxury hotel Era: "" The first Castle at Kinnitty was destroyed in 1209 and was later rebuilt by the Normans in 1213. History: After rebuilding the castle, the Normans were driven out by the powerful Gaelic clan, the O'Carrolls of Ely. 1630, William O'Carroll built a new Castle in close proximity to the old Abbey. This was confiscated in 1641 by the English forces as part of the plantation of Offaly, or ""Kings County"" as it was renamed. In 1922, as with many stately homes in Ireland, the Castle was burned down by the Republican forces. The Castle was rebuilt in 1928 and the Bernard family lived there until 1946 when it was sold to Lord Decies who in turn sold the Castle to The State in 1951. The State retained ownership until it was purchased by the Ryan family in 1994 and has since been transformed. Ghost ratings: In the Banquet Hall there is a huge presence of a spirit of a monk, very tall and is alw