Trim Castle
Trim Castle, Trim, Ireland covers an area of 5 hectares, it is the remains of the largest castle in Europe, which was Norman in origin, built primarily by Hugh de Lacy and his descendants. The present building was erected in 1212 on the site of an earlier motte and bailey fort.
As with many castles the coming of modern warfare technology, such as gunpowder and an attack by Oliver Cromwell carried out a devistating attack on the castle after which it lost it prestiege, left the castle empty and it fell into disuse. A large section of the outer perimeter walls feel in the 19th century during stormy weather.
The castle remained in private hands for many years until recently, some relatively short scenes of the film "Braveheart" were filmed there. After this it was decided that the castle should be renovated and reopened to the public. It is currently opened to the public, see link below for more information.