This week we travel back in time to the thirteenth century and Castle Woodstock in Athy, Co. Kildare. I shot this image back in 2012. Built in the early 1300’s by the St Michaels, it formed part of the defensive line of castles built along the Pale by the Normans to defend their newly acquired lands and keep the native Irish out. The original Castle would have been wooden, and later replaced by the stone tower house which remains today. Sadly unlike its neighbour White Castle it had not been cared for and like so many other castles has fallen into ruin. The tower itself is still partially standing and it is believed that the inner walls were removed many years ago to build the local town hall.

I converted this to mono in Photoshop and the tone of the image using Silver Effex Pro which has become a personal favourite of mine lately. Aside from the castle which as many of you will know are one of my favourite places to explore I really like the sky in this image.You can see the original shot and read more about its history by clicking HERE. I hope you like it as much as I do. As always any thoughts or comments you may have would be greatly appreciated.

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