Historic Lismore Castle adds slabs of Berlin Wall to its defences

A luxury castle hotel has made an historic new addition to its grounds — two sections of the Berlin Wall.

The wall was both the physical division between West Berlin and East Germany from 1961 to 1989 and the symbolic boundary between democracy and communism during the Cold War.

After the wall came down, Germany reunified into a single state and pieces of the wall — ranging from big slabs to pieces as small as a coin — became collectible items worldwide.

Lismore Castle in Co Waterford acquired the pieces of history after current custodians Lord and Lady Burlington travelled to Germany last year.

Yesterday, both sections of the wall arrived at the castle, after they were transported by lorry from Berlin.

The segments, each one measuring 3m 60cm x 1m 20cm and weighing 2.5 tonnes, were installed in the gardens where they can be viewed by members of the public.

Lord Burlington said he felt “extremely fortunate” to have acquired “such a powerful reminder of one of the most significant episodes of European history of recent years”.

Lismore Castle Gardens extend over seven acres and will be open seven days a week, 10.30am-4.30pm, from April 3 to September 30.

The beautiful gardens are set within the 17th century outer defensive walls and are well known for their large collection of rhododendrons, camellias and magnolia, as well as a kitchen garden.

Entry also gives access to Lismore Castle Arts, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with an ambitious programme of events and education projects.