Key facts
- Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan have bought Strancally Castle and its 440-acre estate in County Waterford, Ireland.
- The property will be used as a base for their visits to Ireland.
- The sale was an off-market deal, with an estimated value between €20m and €30m.
- The castle was built in 1830 and designed by architects James and George Richard Pain.
- The previous owners, Michael Alen-Buckley and Giancarla Alen-Buckley, restored the estate over 25 years.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his wife, Priscilla Chan, have purchased the historic Strancally Castle and its 440-acre estate in County Waterford, Ireland. The gothic-style mansion, built in 1830, will serve as a base for the couple during their visits to Ireland, where Meta has its international headquarters.
A spokesperson for Zuckerberg stated that the family is excited to care for the historic home and looks forward to spending time in Ireland. The price of the off-market transaction is undisclosed, but the Irish Times estimated it to be between €20 million and €30 million.
The estate was previously owned by Michael Alen-Buckley, co-founder of RAB Capital, and his wife Giancarla, who bought it in the early 2000s and undertook renovations. In a statement, the Alen-Buckleys expressed their fondness for the home of 25 years and their gratitude for the opportunity to restore it. They are pleased that Zuckerberg intends to continue investing in the property and grounds.
The National Built Heritage Service describes the castle's construction in sandstone and limestone ashlar as evidence of high-quality stone masonry and craftsmanship. The Blackwater valley is home to other notable estates, including Ballynatray House, purchased by James Dyson, and Abbey Leix, bought by Stripe co-founder John Collison.