Castle

In a summary of 13th-century references to castles in western Ireland, Lynn (1985-6, 40, 109) lists the castle of Tigh da Coinne (Tiaquinn), which the Annals of Connacht for the year 1266 record 'was broken down and the whole of Conmaicne laid waste'. A footnote in Annals of the Four Master states that the Conmaichne mentioned must be Conmaicne Kilnel-Dubhain, now barony of Dunmore, Co. Galway (ibid, 109). It is possible that the Annals refer to the castle (GA072-059----) in Tiaquin Demesne, Co. Galway. However, Lynn (ibid, 109) suggests a location in county Mayo, relating that a 'possible site for this castle, 4 miles SW of Claremorris was visited. Some low vague earthworks occupy the possible site, but give more the impression of a settlement than a castle.' He does not record his source of information for this possible monument or its precise location, but his general directions would place it in the area of Hollymount and Lissatava (Mayo OS 6-inch maps 110 or 111). There are records of castles in this area but no upstanding remains survive for any of them and the precise location of the latter two in the following list are unknown: Hollymount Demesne (MA110-049----); Knockalegan (MA111-018----); Lehinch Demesne (MA111-072001-); Lissatava (MA111-078----). Compiled by: Jane O'Shaughnessy Date of upload: 24 February 2023

Tiaquinn Castle was built in the 13th century, likely by a local Gaelic lord in western Ireland. It is remembered for being destroyed in 1266, as recorded in the Annals of Connacht, reflecting the turbulent political and military conflicts of the period.