HIstory of Malahide Castle

The pictures below are of our visit to Malahide Castle.  It was a fascinating insight into a family who has played an important role in Irish history.  The original part of the castle was built in 1185 for the Talbot family.  The first Talbot was awarded the grounds for his faithful fighting alongside William the Conqueror.  The Talbot family lived in the castle, which has been added to over time, for 800 years.  It was only recently sold to the Irish government.  Before the Battle of the Boyne, 15 of the Talbot heirs gathered in the Banquet Room for a last breakfast together.  14 of them perished in that battle.  The castle is surrounded by 268 acres of woodlands, park and a walled garden.  Each room was maintained from a different time period.  One interesting fact concerns the Drawing Room, which is thus named because the ladies exited to it when they withdrew from the men after the evening meal.  Fans were passed out to each lady as they entered so they could shield their faces from the heat of the fireplace to keep their wax based make-up from melting down their faces!  Not a very fashionable sight.  A very fun and educational day.