The book has been brought together specifically to advance research on castles and fortifications in Ireland and Wales.
The relation of Wales to Ireland in this volume is simple. Closely connected in the Middle Ages, the majority of the Anglo-Normans who came over to Ireland in 1169 and subsequent years originated from south Wales and the Welsh Marches. Common Irish names such as Barry, Fitzgerald, and many others, have their origins in Norman-dominated parts of Wales during the 12th century, and many castle designs in Ireland were influenced by Welsh design, and vice versa.
The book also honours Jeremy Knight, a man whose research over the years and his excavation at Montgomery Castle has helped to give the subject academic validity.
John Kenyon works with the National Museum of Wales. Kieron O’Conor is the author of several articles on medieval Ireland, and lectures in NUI Galway.
