Full programme of tours and talks for Heritage Week at Maynooth Castle.

Rebels, Royals and Revelry at Maynooth Castle

(image: Maynooth Castle. Source: William Murphy)

Heritage Week 2024 sees a host of events throughout Kildare including a full calendar of talks and tours in Maynooth Castle, the 13th century home of the Geraldine dynasty.

On Saturday 17th of August, there'll be a guided tour of Maynooth Castle and St. Mary's Church. The site around the church and castle dates back to 1200, with the castle, home to the Fitzgeralds, being a prime example of Norman strongholds of the time. The tour promises lots of stories on the rise and fall of powerful players in Kildare's history. The event kicks off at 4.30 pm on Saturday. If you can't make Saturday, the tour will take place again on the morning of the 22nd. Full details here.

If you plan on visiting Maynooth Castle on Saturday, it'll be worthwhile to drop along to the morning tour on the lost library of the castle. There'll be storytelling complete with medieval costume, so looks like a nice event to bring younger family members to.

The Fair Geraldine and the Tudor Court

Delve into the world of Fair Geraldine on the 25th of August, with an event on the life of Elizabeth Fitzgerald. Dress historian Melissa Shields will give a costumed talk on the courtly career of Elizabeth, friend to her namesake Queen Elizabeth I and a powerhouse of political activity and intrigue. Using her with and skill she managed to advance her husband's career and protect her own brother from accusations of treason. This talk promises to be a highlight of the week at Maynooth Castle.

Find out more about the event here.

These are just a sample of the talks and tours happening at Maynooth Castle this week. For a full list of events at the castle during Heritage Week 2024, visit here.

You can also call 046 942 2270 or email maynoothcastle@opw.ie for more information.