King John's Castle 5.42

King John's Castle closed October 30th 2012 for a €6 million redevelopment
programme which will lead to a unique visitor experience at the castle in time for
next season. In 2013, visitors of all ages will find something to inspire and excite
them at King John’s Castle in Limerick City. They will experience Limerick’s history
as never before. The castle will boast a brand new visitor centre, bringing together
the castle’s remarkable archaeology and 21st century technology allowing visitors
to fully explore and discover King John’s Castle.
John also knows as Lackland was King of England from April 1199 until his death
at the 50 yrs of age in 1216. He was the youngest of 5 sons King Henry II of England
& Eleanor of Aquitane. He was appointed Lord of Ireland at age 12. He is most
well-known for signing the Magna Carta into existence in 1219 which was a
pre-curser to the Bill of Rights as we know it today. He was brother to Richard the
Lionheart. History generally describes him as petty, vindictive & childish.
He has been cast as a villain in the fictional Robin Hood stories. King John died of
dysentry at age 50 in 1216.