Ballymote Castle

To the west of Ballymote town stands this impressive Anglo-Norman castle. Almost square in plan, it consists of an entrance in the middle of the north wall which is flanked by three storeyed twin-towers. The curtain wall has a tower at each corner, with a D-shaped tower midway along the east and west curtain walls. The walls are 3m thick. The entrance/gatehouse still has the remains of a portcullis slot. The remains of fireplaces are found in all six towers at ground level. Water spouts in the south facing gatehouse allowed water run-off into the enclosed castle keep.

The Annals of the Four Masters state that it was built by the Red Earl of Ulster, Richard de Burgo, in 1300. By 1317 it was captured by the O’Connor’s. In 1347 the MacDiarmada’s became the owners. In 1381 the McDonough’s had possession. It was then returned to the O’Connor’s until it was taken by the Governor of Connacht, Richard Bingham, in 1584. It was sacked in 1588. Reputedly sold to Red Hugh O’Donnell in 1598, before marching onto the Battle of Kinsale, for £400 and 300 cows. Eventually in 1690 Lord Granard possessed Ballymote Castle and left it to ruin. The famous Book of Ballymote, including Lebor Gabála, Lebor na gCeart, Ogham writing, Dinshenchas and the Destruction of Troy, were partially written in Ballymote Castle circa 1391. Now held in the Royal Irish Academy.

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This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014