Downdaniel Castle (in Ruins)

Rectangular tower-house (13.5m NW-SE; 9.7m SW-NE) on N bank Bandon River at E side of junction with Brinny river. Field known as 'castle garden' on opposite bank of Brinny river and according to local tradition present course of river diverted from W side of this field. NW half of structure stands in poor repair to four storeys; elsewhere fallen except ground floor of SE wall. Base of NW and SW walls (Wth 1.8m) noticeably thinner than NE and SE walls (Wth 2.5m). Square-set window embrasures covered by segmental vaulted heads with inset gun loops in NW wall. Central 2nd floor window has single ogee-headed light. Deep vertical split on line of central windows in NW wall. Garderobe chute opening at S end of SE wall; according to Gillman (1897, 321) L-shaped garderobe chamber existed in S angle at 1st-floor level. Pointed, wicker-centred vault over 2nd floor (axis NW-SE) now partially fallen; mural passage visible on NE side of vault. Castle of Barry Og clan, which later passed to MacCarthy Riabhach (O Murchadha 1985, 54). According to local tradition built in 1476 (Bennett 1869, 103); probably rebuilt or repaired in 16th century. Nearby is site of 17th-century ironworks (CO097-049----). Incised stone (CO097-072----) found in 'castle garden' now relocated in nearby outhouse. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 1: West Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1992). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Built in the late 16th or early 17th century, Downdaniel Castle was likely held by the McCarthy family, a prominent Gaelic-Irish clan in the region. Its strategic position near the Bandon and Brinny rivers highlights its historical importance for local defense and control of riverine trade routes.