Peel Castle
From ManxWiki
Peel Castle stands on St Patrick's Isle in Peel. The castle, originally constructed by Vikings, is connected to the town by man made causeway that was originally built as a sea wall to protect the entrance to the harbour. It is now owned by Manx National Heritage and is open to visitors as part of The Story of Mann.
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History
The castle was built in the 11th century by the Vikings, under the rule of King Magnus Barelegs. While there were older stone Celtic monastic buildings on the island, the first Viking fortifications were built of wood. The prominent round tower was originally part of the Celtic monastery, but has had battlements added at a later date. In the early 14th century, the majority of the walls and towers were built primarily from local red sandstone, which is found abundantly in the area.
After the rule of the Vikings, the castle continued to be used by the church due to the cathedral built there – the seat of Sodor Diocese – but was eventually abandoned in the 18th century. The castle remained fortified and new defensive positions were added as late as 1860.
The buildings within the castle are now mostly ruined, but the outer walls remain intact.
Archeology
Excavations between 1982-87 revealed an extensive graveyard as well as the remains of Magnus Bareleg's original wooden fort. The most spectacular finds were the 10th century grave of "The Pagan Lady" which included a fine example of a Viking necklace and a cache of silver coins dating from about 1030.
Visiting the castle
Peel Castle is reached via East Quay by car or by crossing the harbour footbridge if on foot. Free parking is available in public car parks behind the IRIS Pumping Station on Peel Promenade and overlooking Fenella Beach. On street parking is available on the promenade, on East Quay and on Peel Breakwater.
The entrance to the castle is located close to the causeway where the road begins to curve around the walls. A public footpath surrounds the castle walls via steps from Fenella Beach and through the round house at the start of the breakwater.
Opening Times and Prices 2008
Open: 7 days a week from 21st March 2008 until October 2008.
Times: 10.00am to 5.00pm
Charges: Adult £5.50, Child £2.80, Family (2+2) £13.80
