01-08-2025
Development of Wicklow's Black Castle: Photos and views sought
Some free, informal events will take place later in August, so the public can share their views on how yo use the Black Castle, what changes they would like to see and how they would like to see the highly valued public amenity to be developed.
This castle ruin stands on a rocky promontory over the sea, at the eastern side of the town, beside Travelahawk beach. Following the arrival of the Norman's in 1169 Earl Strongbow was granted the lands along the East Coast. He in turn granted those lands to Baron Maurice Fitzgerald on condition that he build castles for protection.
The Black Castle was constantly under attack from local Chieftains, notably those of the O'Byrne and O'Toole clans and in 1301 they succeeded in totally destroying the castle. There is a fine vantage-point for views over the town and the coast of north Wicklow from the ruins.
The Cathaoirleach of Wicklow Municipal District Cllr Graham Richmond said: 'This is the start of public consultation into what we can do to attract more visitors to the Black Castle. The number of people who come to Wicklow town specifically to visit the Black Castle is amazing. There is plenty of tourism potential in Wicklow town and we need to maximise that potential, while also respecting the heritage and historical importance of the site.
'Younger kids in particular love the whole story behind the Black Castle, and whether St Patrick landed on Travelahawk beach as local legend has it. They love the whole magic and mystery of it all.'
An outdoor exhibition will take place at the Black Castle grounds on Thursday, August 21, and people are invited to submit their photos of the Black Castle online
Any new or old photos capturing memories at the Black Castle can be emailed to katie@ with the name of the photographer, and a short description of the memories.
People can also tag @studioidir in their photograph on Instagram. Submissions will be accepted from August 1 through to August 20.
The outdoor exhibition, taking place at the Black Castle from 1.30pm to 2.30pm on August 21, will see everyone share histories and memories of this historic coastland by bringing along photos of Black Castle to add to the exhibition.
People will also have their say on the potential future of the development of Black Castle and it's surrounding area on a slow walk around the site.
That will be followed by an indoor creative, model-making, drop-in workshop taking place in Wicklow Library from 4pm to 8pm exploring how the Black Castle and its surrounding grounds could be developed. A short presentation on the project will take place at 4pm.
