What is recorded here

Ballyloo Castle stands as a ruined tower house in County Carlow, Ireland. Its massive granite walls still hold a vaulted chamber and narrow loops for defense. The structure survives as a stark reminder of local strength and endurance.

The following description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Carlow' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1993). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 17 July 2007 Rectangular structure (int. dims. c 5m x c. 9m) of two storeys plus loft below vault. Built with massive walls of roughly coursed granite boulders. Ground floor entrance in W wall by SW corner, leading to main chamber with barrel vault aligned N-S. Loops and embrasures in E, N, and S walls. Small vaulted chamber in thickness of W wall. Access to upper floor via mural stairs immediately inside entrance. Garderobe chute at NE angle. (JRSAI 1987, 33; Carloviana 1956, 14)

Ballyloo Castle was built in the 17th century by the Butler family, a prominent Irish noble lineage. It is remembered as an example of early Irish domestic architecture and as part of the historical landscape associated with the Butlers of Ormonde.

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