Doonagore Castle, 16th century tower house in County Clare, Ireland
Doonagore Castle is a circular stone tower house from the 16th century positioned on high ground near Doolin Point. The structure sits on the Atlantic coast and can be viewed from the adjacent public road, where its distinctive round shape is visible against the landscape.
The tower was built in the 16th century as a defensive structure for local clans during a period of coastal development. A significant event in 1588 marked its history when Spanish Armada survivors were executed there by order of the High Sheriff.
The name comes from Irish Dún na Gabhair, reflecting how locals named places after geographical features and what they observed in the land. Such names served as descriptions of the surrounding landscape and its characteristics.
Access is limited to exterior views from the neighboring public road, as this is now a private residence. The best time to view the building is during daylight hours when its shape and stonework are clearly visible.
This structure is one of only a few cylindrical tower houses in the Burren region and was built with sandstone instead of the limestone common to the area. The choice of material and rounded design made it technically distinctive compared to other buildings of its era.
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