Why this matters
Built by Adam de Feipo around the late 12th century, following his grant of the barony of Skreen from Hugh de Lacy circa 1172. The motte is important as it likely served as the administrative centre of the barony and reflects early Norman settlement in the region.
What is recorded here
Hugh de Lacy granted the barony of Skreen to Adam de Feipo by c. 1172, and Adam probably made Skreen its caput or centre (Otway-Ruthven 1964). It is situated on a S-facing slope of the hill c. 300m S of the Columban church (ME032-047003-). This is a flat-topped earthen mound (diam. of top 15m; diam. of base 40m; H 6m) planted with deciduous trees. The castle (ME032-047002-) is c. 80m to the NNE.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Meath' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1987). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of revision: 2 June 2016
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