Castlecarra (in Ruins) — Castlecarra

Built between 1238 and 1300 by de Staunton and held by them until end of 16th century. Built on a walled promontory (MA100-082005-); a three storey tower (int. dims. 8.2m N-S; 12.3m E-W), standing in a later strongly fortified bawn (MA100-082006-) with batter and with one rounded corner turret. Much of the building displays later additions of 15th century date, architecturally similar to tower house features. A steep base batter is not knitted into the walling. Entrance to ground floor on S via small porch feature; small guardroom inside to E; main chamber is divided into two vaulted rooms by later E-W running wall which runs into window embrasure in E wall. Straight stairs rises towards E wall and turns W to run along dividing wall ending in centre of 1st floor. 1st-floor now concrete platform (after OPW conservation work), is well lit by large windows in N, S and W walls. Narrow doorway in E wall leads to small extension containing garderobe and mural stairs leading to 2nd-floor. 2nd-floor contains mural stairs on N, E and W walls; N stairs lead to remains of wall-walk. Bawn (MA100-082006-), with much later rectangular building (MA100-082007-) in SW encloses castle; may have contained an opening in the N. To N is promontory wall containing gate tower (MA100-082004-), which may be contemporary with earliest phases of castle construction. This is a National Monument in State care (No. 222). The above description has been derived from D. Lavelle (compiler), An Archaeological Survey of Ballinrobe and District including Lough Mask and Lough Carra. Lough Mask and Lough Carra Tourist Development Association (1994), No. 702. Date of upload: 4 February 2013