Tinnakill Castle

Tinnakill Castle is a ruined four-story limestone tower house located in the parish of Coolbanagher in Portnahinch Barony. The structure measures approximately 10 by 11.8 meters and displays the typical features of a medieval tower dwelling.

The castle was built in 1450 by Eoin Carragh MacDonnell under Irish family control. Following the Irish Rebellion of 1641, in which James MacDonnell participated, the structure was confiscated by English authorities.

The name comes from Irish 'Tigh na Coille', meaning House of the Wood. A carved sheela na gig figure once decorated the second floor, a symbolic form of representation found in medieval Irish buildings.

The ruins are located in County Laois and accessible alongside many other medieval structures in the area. Visitors should expect uneven ground and possibly limited access due to the age of the remains.

The walls display carefully dressed limestone blocks with refined margins at the corners, indicating construction techniques from the late 1500s. This craftsmanship detail is uncommon and suggests the wealth or importance of the family that built the structure.

Location: County Laois

GPS coordinates: 53.12800,-7.25100

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:27