Cloonacauneen Castle

On NE-facing slope overlooking an extensive tract of bogland known as the Curragh. In existence in 1574 when it was in the possession of 'Ricard beg' Burke (Nolan 1901, 115). Well-preserved rectangular tower (L 9.45m, Wth 7.6m) of four storeys. A gabled house was built against S wall in 19th C: it and the tower were renovated in 1960s and are still occupied as a private residence. The following description is based largely on Athy's survey (1914, 173-6): a pointed-arch doorway of two orders, set off-centre in E wall, gives access to a lobby, with murder-hole above, and there is a spiral stair in SE corner. The ground, 1st and 2nd floors each comprise a main chamber with a subsidiary one to E. A stone vault exists between 2nd/3rd floors and there are fireplaces in N wall on 1st and 3rd floors. An enclosed latrine gallery runs along E side of main chamber between 1st and 2nd floors: there is also a latrine on 3rd floor. Beneath the floor on S side of the 3rd floor is a concealed chamber in the thickness of the arch. All the windows were single or double lights with ogee or flat heads. Only the base of the parapets survived in 1914. (O'Flanagan 1927a, Vol. 1, 331) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Galway Vol. I - West Galway'. Compiled by Paul Gosling (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1993). Date of upload: 05 August 2010

Cloonacauneen Castle was held by Ricard beg Burke in 1574 and is notable for its well-preserved rectangular tower, reflecting the defensive architecture of late medieval Ireland. Its strategic location overlooking the Curragh bogland highlights its historical significance in the region.