Architecture in Meath
The ruins of Trim Castle are. more extensive than those of any other castle in Ireland. Trim is the ancient Ath Truim (the ford of elder-tree) : the ancient ford can still be seen above the town bridge over the Boyne. The castle was built 
to protect this. Though it is commonly called King Johns Castle the present castle, which is Edwardian in plan, was certainly not. built until after the date of Johns visit to Ireland. A castle was founded at Trim by Hugh de Lacy in 1173 ; probably this was only an earthen mote with a wooden stockade. The present ruins occupy about two acres. The principal feature is the keep, which is Norman in type ; the draw- bridge, portcullis and gateway arc also well preserved. The castle was defended by a moat fed by water from the River Boyne
