Dundalk

Dundalk is a harbour town that owes its historical significance to its strategic location as the gateway to Ulster. Founded by the Normans, the settlement grew up around the motte and bailey of Castletown. However, almost as soon as the town was established, it was plundered and burned during the invasion of Edward Bruce in 1315. Dundalk was a significant market town throughout the middle ages and even today the town centre has a large catchment area for shoppers. Areas of historical interest include The Courthouse which was built between 1813-1819 and was modelled on the Temple of Thesus in Athens and St. Patrick's Pro-Cathedral in Francis Street. This is a 19th century Georgian gothic church which was built between 1837 and 1848.