Ross Castle is a fine example of the Tower Castle style prevalent throughout Ireland.  It consists of a large central tower, built around the 16th century, surrounded by a fortification wall.  The Castle's defenses were greatly increased by its location on the shores of Lough Leane, making land attack possible only from one side.  Indeed, legend foretold that the castle would only fall when it was attacked from the lake itself, a feat deemed impossible until Cromwell's soldiers portaged a man-of-war overland and launched it onto the lake.  When the Irish defenders saw the boat approaching, they surrendered the castle without a fight.  Today, Ross Castle has been extensively restored, and a tour of its interior reveals a realistic view of what life within a medieval castle was like.

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