Oranmore Castle, Medieval tower house in Oranmore, Ireland
Oranmore Castle is a rectangular stone tower house with four stories and a square staircase turret positioned above Galway Bay. The walls are solidly constructed in the style typical of medieval fortified residences.
The Clanricarde family built this fortress in the 15th century as a strategic stronghold. It saw use during conflicts between Confederate and Parliamentary forces in Ireland's civil wars.
The name Oranmore comes from Irish words meaning golden spring, reflecting the local landscape and water sources that once sustained the area around the tower.
The location above the bay provides far-reaching views across the water and surrounding land from multiple levels. Wear sturdy shoes as the stairs are steep and the site is exposed to wind and weather.
The castle served as a filming location for television and film productions, including an appearance as a French tower in the series Reign. This role in entertainment has added a layer of modern cultural connection to the medieval structure.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
