Although Markree Castle is associated with Red Mary, known for her cruelty, it is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a newborn girl who likes visitors to leave her gifts.
In the enchanting countryside of County Sligo, Markree Castle has witnessed centuries of change, echoing with the footsteps of the generations that have called it home. Today, it is a four-star hotel on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way coastline.
Markree Castle has been the cherished seat of the Cooper family since 1663. Its walls stand as a testament to the passage of time, holding within its boundaries the stories of those who lived, loved and sometimes stayed beyond their years.
History of the Castle
In the 17th century, Markree Castle was originally granted to Cornet Edward Cooper, a soldier who served under Cromwell. The castle was previously a fortified outpost of the McDonagh clan, guarding a ford over the river. After Edward married Marie Rua, widow of Conor O'Brien, who was killed in battle, they took up residence at Dromoland Castle. Red Mary has her own ghost story from another castle.
Their descendants continued to own Markree Castle, although there were times when they had to flee due to political turmoil, such as during King James I's attempt to regain the throne or during the Irish Civil War in the 1920s.
In the 19th century, Colonel Edward Joshua Cooper founded the Markree Observatory on the castle grounds, which housed one of the largest telescopes in the world at the time. The castle underwent architectural alterations in the 19th century and in 1881 recorded the lowest officially recorded air temperature in Ireland.
In the 20th century, Bryan Cooper inherited the castle in 1902 and lived there with his family, except during World War I and political duties, until his death in 1930. After World War II, the castle was occupied by Bryan and Elizabeth Cooper until 1981. In 1992, it was converted into a hotel by Charles Cooper. The castle underwent renovation after being sold to the Corscadden family in 2015.
Pippa's ghost haunts Markree Castle
Unlike other haunted houses, which speak of darker, more sinister apparitions, the ghosts of Markree Castle are said to be more benign. At the heart of the supernatural tales lies the spirit of a newborn child whose tragic death left an indelible mark on the castle’s soul.
The hauntings became so regular that staff named her Pippa and learned to cope with her by leaving her little gifts.
It is believed that this mischievous little spirit finds amusement in playfully closing doors and forcing staff to rummage through plates. While some may find these antics disturbing, they serve as a reminder of the castle’s prosperous history and the life that once flourished within its walls.
Visitors who brought their children have experienced visits from this curious spirit. One visitor noticed that her 2-year-old child was talking to no one, and when asked about it, pointed to the corner, but no one was there.
Mysterious cellars
Deep in the cellars of Markree Castle, where past and present meet in a ghostly dance, reports of paranormal activity have emerged. These mysterious occurrences encourage those with a penchant for the supernatural to explore the hidden depths of the castle and perhaps catch a glimpse of the ethereal inhabitants who call it home.
Markree Castle combines history, elegance and the supernatural, making it a fascinating destination for adventure seekers and history buffs. The 500-acre grounds are now a hotel.
As you wander the corridors and explore the mysterious cellars, keep an eye out for the mischievous ghost who reminds us that even in the afterlife there's room for a little fun.
References:
Markree Castle | Haunted Sligo, Ireland | Spirited Isle
History of Markree Castle | Irish Castle
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