Why did Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg buy an Irish castle?
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's recent purchase of an Irish castle has sparked interest in the trend of wealthy individuals acquiring historic Irish properties. Experts suggest the purchases are driven by a mix of practical business needs, such as proximity to corporate headquarters, and the prestige of owning historic estates.
Why it matters
The trend highlights the intersection of global wealth, corporate presence in Ireland, and the preservation of historic European architecture.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Adam Mandeville BBC News NI BBC / EPA Mark Zuckerberg and Jeremy Irons are among celebrities to have bought Irish castles Why do rich people keep buying Irish castles?
It's a question that has cropped up once again this week, following Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's purchase of Strancally Castle in County Waterford.
But the Facebook founder is far from the first - the likes of Jeremy Irons, Christy Cashman, and the billionaire John Malone have all bought Irish castles in recent decades.
For Zuckerberg, part of the appeal is likely practicality, with Meta's international headquarters based in Ireland.
A spokesman for Zuckerberg said: "Mark and his family are excited to continue caring for this historic home and look forward to spending time in Ireland, where Meta maintains its international headquarters."
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