Athlone Arts & Tourism is delighted to announce the launch of an excellent guide book on the history and architecture of Athlone Castle.
This beautifully illustrated book shows the development of the castle throughout the centuries and is an enjoyable read for visitors and locals interested in learning more about the castle's origins.
The guide book author, Dr Rory Sherlock, is an archaeologist and architectural historian who completed a programme of doctoral research on the social environment of Irish tower houses at NUI Galway in 2008. He is the founder and director of the Galway Archaeological Field School, which conducts ongoing research into late medieval settlement in Ireland while training students in survey and excavation techniques.
Launching the book, Mayor of Athlone John Dolan said: "Thanks to the efforts of the Old Athlone Society and Westmeath County Council, this rich cultural heritage has been compiled by Rory Sherlock and this publication is the outcome of a complete survey of the complex which draws upon a range of documentation, maps, architectural analysis, and a detailed digital survey to uncover the story of Athlone Castle".
Athlone Castle recently expanded its services with a multi-lingual offering, thanks to an Ireland’s Ancient East grant from Fáilte Ireland. The castle together with its neighbouring Luan Gallery are two of the many great attractions that Athlone has to offer, with the town and surrounding area fast becoming a top five short stay destination in Ireland. The addition of a high quality cycleway from Athlone to Dublin will be a major attraction for international tourism also.
Manager of Athlone Castle, Carmel Duffy, said: "Since its re-opening in November 2012... Athlone Castle Visitor Centre offers visitors a wonderful and interactive opportunity to step back in time and discover the castle’s rich story and the history of the town and its people.
"We are delighted that its story is now presented in a publication for our visitors and the people of Athlone and beyond to enjoy and keep as a memento of their visit."
The guide book is currently on sale at Athlone Castle Visitor Centre and would make an ideal Christmas present for history lovers of all ages. Call (090 ) 6442130 for purchasing enquiries.
