Norman settlement in Ireland

The Normans built many settlements in Ireland when the invaded the country in the 12th century.

Where did the Normans settle?

In the East and South

The Normans came to Ireland from England and Wales. So they landed on the east and south coasts of Ireland.

Ireland at that time had very few roads and lots of forest.

This prevented the Normans from moving too far from their landing places.

They settled in the east and south.

Fertile land

Land was very important to the Normans.

Good land was vital for growing food.

Crops could be grown and cattle could be raised and sold for profit.

Normans usually settled on flat or gently sloping lowlands with fertile soil.

Near rivers

The Normans usually settled near rivers.

Why?

Water for drinking.

Transport routes.

Defensive moats.

Defensive sites

The Normans feared attack from the Irish people.

They lived in or close to castles for defense.

Clues for finding a Norman town

A castle

A motte

Town walls or towers

Old abbeys, monasteries or friaries.

Norman placenames: 'castle', 'manor', or 'park'.