What is recorded here

In 1574, the castle list named Gill Patrick Odonellan as master of two castles in Ballydonellan. One still stands in Ballydonnellan East; the other vanished into Ballydonnellan West, leaving behind a gap the land still seems to be holding.

The 1574 list of castles in Galway records 'Gill Patrick Odonellan' as in the possession of 'ii castles' in 'Ballydonellan' (Nolan 1901b, 110). A tower house is known in Ballydonnellan East (GA098-028001-). It is presumed that the second castle stood somewhere in this td. Not visited. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Galway Vol. II - North Galway'. Compiled by Olive Alcock, Kathy de hÓra and Paul Gosling (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1999). Date of upload: 05 August 2010

Gill Patrick O'Donnellan held at least two castles in Ballydonnellan in 1574, according to historical records. This reflects the presence of local Gaelic lordship in the Galway area during the late 16th century.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.