O'Brien's Castle

The rectangular stone keep stands at one of the highest points on Inisheer island, with first-floor entrance and vaulted chambers at ground level.

The O'Brien family constructed this defensive structure around 1400, and in 1582 it passed to the O'Flaherty clan before Cromwell's forces damaged it in 1652.

The castle features architectural elements including a carved human face on a bartizan corbel, representing medieval Irish craftsmanship and building techniques.

The castle functions as a designated national monument of Ireland, offering visitors insights into defensive architecture and medieval construction methods.

The site previously contained a ringfort named Dún Formna, dating between the 5th century BC and 1st century AD, indicating extended historical occupation.

Location: County Galway

GPS coordinates: 53.06200,-9.51916

Latest update: March 6, 2025 01:24