Limerick's poorest. Englishtown became characterised by poverty, slum living and squalor. All of the slums were cleared in the early to mid 20th Century, resulting in the loss of most of the areas historical built heritage such as the collection of Flemish townhouses, Ireton's Castle, the Exchange building, the Tholsel amongst much more. Many buildings and shops in the area remain derelict or in deteriorating conditions today. St Mary's Park St Mary's Park is a local authority housing estate located on the northern part of the island known as the Island Field. As one of the most deprived areas in Limerick city, it is earmarked as part of the overall Limerick city regeneration project which will see the estate replanned and rebuilt with greater integration to the city. Landmarks As the most historic and ancient part of Limerick, King's Island and the Englishtown area contains many notable buildings and landmarks such as: King John's Castle, Castle Street, dates from the 13th Century St Mary's Cathedral, Bridge Street, dates from the 14th Century Old Bishop's Palace, (now headquarters of Limerick Civic Trust), Castle Street, c1750 St Munchin's Church (now the Island Theatre Company), Church Street, c1825 Villier's Almhouses, Verdant Place, c1820 (Royal) Military Cemetery, King's Island, which dates from 1856 Bourke's Castle, Athlunkard Street Fanning's Castle, Mary Street, c1641 City Courthouse, Merchants Quay, c1800 Barrington's Hospital, George's Quay St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, Athlunkard Street Exchange Walls (formerly the Exchange Building), Nicholas Street Ruins of the old Dominican Friary, Bishop Street Limerick City Hall & Civic Buildings, Merchants Quay Baal's Bridge dates from 1830 replacing an earlier structure (which connected Irishtown to Englishtown in medieval times). The bridge is also known for the Baal's Bridge Square. When the new bridge was constructed in 1830 an old brass square of Freemasonry symbolism was found in the foundations of the original bridge with a date inscribed to 1517. The Square is reputed to be one of the earliest Masonic items found in the world. See also History of Limerick City Limerick History of Ireland Ireland King John of England Limerick City Museum References Limerick (city) River islands of Ireland Islands of County Limerick