Description of the attraction
In the heart of Galway, at the corner of Abbigate and Shop Streets, is one of the oldest and most amazing buildings in the city. This Lingh Castle is one of the finest examples of urban castles in the country. City castles are residential buildings that were very popular among wealthy merchants in Ireland in the 15th and 16th centuries. Lingh Castle dates back to this period. The exact date of construction is unknown, but the coat of arms of Henry VII, who was king of England from 1484 to 1509, is carved above the entrance.
The imposing limestone building is a fine example of Irish Gothic. It is the only secular medieval building that has survived in the city. It was once home to one of Galway's most influential families, the Linh, who gave the city several mayors.
Over the centuries, the building was rebuilt, but its appearance has remained unchanged and has been perfectly preserved to this day. The building has four floors; in 1808, an extensive extension was made. Particular attention is drawn to the stone carved figures that adorn the castle, gargoyles on the gutters, the carved coat of arms of the Linh family and the trims on some windows. On the side wall of the building is a stone carved with the coat of arms of the Earl of Kildare.
Shop Street, true to its name, is Galway's main shopping street. This is a pedestrianized street, and there are numerous shops, cafes and restaurants, and street musicians demonstrate their skills next to the windows. The fact that it is here that one of the oldest buildings in the city is located indicates how carefully the residents of the city treat their historical heritage.
Now the building houses a branch of the AIB bank, and on the ground floor there is a small museum.
