Three Castle Head, Medieval defensive structure in County Cork, Ireland
Three Castle Head is a cape in County Cork featuring three connected towers perched on cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean. The structure spans across stone walls and offers views of the sea and surrounding coastal terrain.
The site was built in 1207 by Donagh O'Mahony and served as a stronghold for the O'Mahony family on the coast. It remained an important settlement until British confiscation in 1627 changed its role.
The place takes its name from the three towers standing on the cliff edge, which dominate the landscape view. Visitors can observe how dry-stone masonry techniques differ between each tower, revealing changes in building methods over time.
Access goes through private farmland and requires a walk of about 30 minutes over hilly ground. A donation is requested by the landowners to help maintain the walking path.
At the base of the towers sits a man-made lake held back by an ancient wall that prevents water from spilling down the steep cliff face. This water system was once part of the defensive design and shows the builders' practical planning.
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