ASKEATON, a town steeped in history on the banks of the River Deel in County Limerick, is preparing to celebrate a monumental milestone this September.
The Askeaton 825 festival will commemorate the town’s rich 825-year history, offering an opportunity for both locals and visitors to reconnect with its remarkable past as the old castle gates open to the public.
The story of Askeaton began in 1199 when Hamo de Volognes built the town’s first castle on a rocky island in the River Deel. Over the centuries, the town became an important seat of power, especially under the Earls of Desmond, who ruled much of Munster from their stronghold in Askeaton.
The castle, along with other significant mediaeval structures like the Franciscan Friary, Beagh Castle, and Toomdeely Castle, played a pivotal role in shaping the town’s identity.
But the town’s historical significance extends far beyond its borders. During the 14th and 15th centuries, the town was at the heart of international trade and diplomacy.
The 7th Earl of Desmond, in particular, left a lasting legacy by building the Great Hall in the 1440s, a grand structure that hosted palatine courts, councils, and assemblies.
The hall also entertained merchants and envoys from across Europe, including cities like Florence, Bruges, and Paris.
Askeaton’s influence during this period is evident in the exquisite craftsmanship and sculptures that remain today, some of which are preserved in the National Museum of Ireland.
Speaking to the Limerick Post, historian Declan Downey emphasised Askeaton’s role as a symbol of Irish sovereignty and power. He notes that during the 1440s, the city-state of Florence sent an emissary, Giovanni Gerardini, to Desmond to negotiate access to world trade.
Gerardini’s mission was based on the belief that the Fitzgeralds, the ruling family of Desmond, were descended from the Gerardini family of Florence.
Although this connection is now considered a myth, made up as a way to gain the support of the powerful Italian family, the story illustrates the town’s far-reaching influence and the extent of its connections across Europe.
“At that time, Askeaton was a hub of international politics and trade,” Downey explains.
“It was a place where continental ideas and cultures mingled with Irish traditions. The town’s wealth and power during this period were remarkable, and its significance is still evident in the surviving mediaeval structures and historical records.”
For years, Askeaton Castle has been closed to the public, with only brief openings by the Office of Public Works as far back as 2007. Since then, the castle has remained inaccessible.
Carmel Amber recalls how the closure impacted those who had hoped to visit.
“The castle has been closed for so long, and people who were planning to visit never got the chance,” she says.
“It closed suddenly, and there were no more tours or anything like that.”
The upcoming Askeaton 825 celebrations offers a rare opportunity for the public to access the castle once more.
“On this one day, people will really get access,” Carmel explains.
“We thought of an event in the castle, and it’s going to be something special. The Mayor will be coming, we have the army coming, and lots of different invited guests.”
The significance of Askeaton 825 goes beyond the event itself, particularly in its connection to the powerful Fitzgerald family and the town’s role in the larger narrative of Ireland’s medieval past.
One of the most intriguing legends linked to Askeaton is that of Gerald FitzGerald, the 3rd Earl of Desmond, who is said to sleep in a cave, waiting to return on his silver-shod steed in Ireland’s time of ultimate need.
“It’s one of those beautiful days when everyone comes together,” Amber says of her hopes for the festival.
“Children involved in parades, people coming back to see the work that’s been done – it’s a day to remember.”
The Askeaton 825 festivities run from September 6 to 8.
