The FitzGerald name is connected with several important castle sites in Ireland. Two major historical branches followed distinct paths: the earls of Kildare in Leinster and the earls of Desmond in Munster.
Maynooth Castle, County Kildare
Heritage Ireland identifies Maynooth Castle as a FitzGerald stronghold begun by Maurice FitzGerald in the 1180s. The castle was badly damaged during the 1535 siege that followed the rebellion associated with Silken Thomas. Visitors can explore the site and its exhibition on the castle and family; check current opening information before travel.
Askeaton Castle, County Limerick
Askeaton Castle stands on an island in the River Deel and is associated with the earls of Desmond. Heritage Ireland records that the site held out against Sir Nicholas Malby in 1579, an episode connected to the second Desmond Rebellion. Its surviving medieval buildings show part of the Desmond branch's Munster setting.
Desmond Castle, Newcastle West
The Desmond Castle at Newcastle West is another site associated with the earls of Desmond. Heritage Ireland dates its beginnings to the thirteenth century, with substantial building from the fifteenth century. It offers a different chapter of Munster FitzGerald history from the Kildare story at Maynooth.
Researching a family connection
Use the FitzGerald surname history for the origin and spelling of the name. Genealogy needs a documented chain of relatives, dates and places; a shared surname or a visit to a castle is not evidence of a particular noble pedigree. You can browse current family-name products in the FitzGerald Irish gifts collection.