Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre The Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre is located in the picturesque town of Granard, County Longford. Experience Norman Ireland nestled in the beauty of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands where a visit truly means getting away from it all. With a history dating back thousands of years, the visitor centre is situated beside Ireland’s Tallest Norman Motte at 544 feet high, built in 1199 by Richard de Tuite. Richard was also the Lord Chief Justice of Ireland and therefore a very important man.
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You will then begin your journey through the Anglo-Norman history beginning with an immersive introductory movie introducing you to their links to Granard. This really sets the scene for your visit. The story of a falling out between two men that ultimately caused the Norman invasion will have you riveted.
At this point, children (or adults!) also have the option to dress up in Norman clothes and receive their Norman name and duties for their visit. Join the quiz to take you on a journey through the past. A visit to the Knights & Conquests Heritage Centre is full of surprises and will leave you leaving with more knowledge because of its educational potentials. The centre is also Covid -19 Safety Charter Approved and operate an advance online booking facility on their website to ensure the safety and comfort of their guests.
Experience Norman Ireland at your own pace with the remainder of the tour self guided. You have the freedom to read and interact with all the information on display at your leisure. Tour guides are on hand to answer any questions. Along your journey you will come face to face with famous characters of the period including Henry II, King Rory O’Connor and Pope Adrian IV. These really help to bring the history to life! For instance, hear what Rory O’Connor did to poor Diarmuid’s son! It is not pretty. You’ll also be able to visit a recreated Norman home and learn how they lived. Meet our Norman Knight to find out all about the weapons the Normans used. Find out if you have a Norman name or dig for artefacts in the Norman CSI room. The kids will love this!
Your journey ends with a 500-year leap in history to Kitty Kiernan’s Drawing Room dedicated to one of Granard's most-famous residents. Find out more about Granard's history in the 1798 Rebellion and Kitty’s place in the War of Independence through her relationship with her fiance Michael Collins. Your visit will end with a beautiful and poignant audio-visual illustration from Kitty herself of life in Granard in the 1920’s, the Civil War and her love for Michael.
Knights & Conquests were delighted to welcome the Bailey Cafe
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