One of the finest and largest castles in Ireland, Cahir Castle was begun in 1142 and most of what is extant dates to the late 14th century. Situated on the River Suir, Cahir Castle is one of those fairytale castles that could be mistaken for a film set rather than a real castle. It was built by the O'Briens of Thomond.
Indeed it has featured in many films and TV series including Excalibur and The Tudors, now it is being turned into a medieval French chateau for the latest Matt Damon film The Last Duel. Based on a true story of the last official duel fought in France in 1386 between Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris it is directed by Ridley Scott and in addition to Matt Damon, it stars Adam Driver, Jodie Comer and Ben Affleck. It will film during September at the castle.
Cahir Castle is surrounded on three sides by water and for centuries controlled the crossing of the mighty River Suir, a strategic waterway leading into the interior of Ireland.
Matt Damon of course spent a lot of the lockdown for COVID-19 here in Ireland at Killiney and went swimming at the Forty Foot in nearby Sandycove.
It is possible to visit the castle despite COVID-19 restrictions but due to filming schedules, set-up etc. for the next few weeks Cahir Castle is closed to the public. Filming finished in early October 2020 and moved to Bective Abbey.
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A walkthrough of Cahir Castle where filming for The Last Duel has been taking place.
