Have you visited Castle Matrix, and did you have an experience you could not explain? Click “Add Your Experience” and share your story.
Castle Matrix was built by the Fitzgeralds in 1420.
On the 7th of December 1487, James FitzThomas FitzGerald, the 8th Earl of Desmond, was murdered by one of his servants. Given that he did not have an heir to succeed him, the title was inherited by his younger brother, Maurice. It is said the 8th Earl was not kind to his staff, and that his murderer, John Murtagh, assassinated his master either under the direction, or with the blessing of, the Earl’s youngest brother, John. Despite Maurice’s own issues with his late brother, blood proved to be thicker than water and he had the servant executed for his crime.
Although his death was avenged, it is said that James still haunts the castle. According to local folklore, every seven years, the spectre of another Earl is seen emerging from the waters of Lough Gur, and heading towards the castle. The ghost of a young girl has also been seen in the grounds.
If any users have shared their own paranormal experiences of Castle Matrix, these will be shared here. To add your own, click “Add Your Experience” below.
All experiences are, of course, open to interpretation. While entries are reviewed before publication to ensure they are relevant to the focus of this website, specific details cannot always be verified. I reserve the right to decline submissions or to redact sensitive information where necessary.
Please note that the castle is on private property. I believe restoration work is in progress, so maybe it will one day open for visitors, but for now, please keep away.
Castle Matrix is either closed or it may be a private or inaccessible property.
Visitors should confirm opening hours and access before travelling to Castle Matrix or any location listed on this site. Information was last updated on March 31, 2026 – if anything has changed, you can suggest an amendment here.
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Thank you for keeping the spirits alive.
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