Dunluce Castle, known from Game of Thrones as the castle of Pyke, the seat of House Greyjoy, is a medieval castle in Northern Ireland first built in the 13th century. It is located on steep cliffs, giving it an excellent defensive position. Its scenic panorama inspired various songs and made it appear in several films (even one with Jackie Chan).
The narrow bridge crossing the stairs is again an excellent defensive place ... however, the McQuillan clan was defeated in battle by the MacDonnell clan who replaced them as lords of the Route.
The interior with windows and chimneys lies now in ruin, but it must have been a dark and windy place! However, the owners looted a Spanish ship of the Armada that had run aground ... maybe there were some exotic pieces they found? Legend has it that the kitchen fell into the sea, but it still exists ... only the northern wall gave way.
Walking down the stairs, you are amazed by the majesty of the castle on top of the cliffs ... it must have been hard to try an ambush without using the narrow bridge (see above).
Looking out of the windows, you see the vast, rugged coastline constantly battered by wind and sea ... no wonder some of the buildings have to be protected by national organisations and sometimes even rebuilt. The connection to other places is minimal (only some buses), but it works. Would you dare to live here?
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