Granard Motte and Bailey

At 534ft above sea level, Granard is said to be the largest motte in Ireland. Situated on the summit of a hill, it has overlooking views of Granard Town and the River Rhine.

Standing on the top of the motte is a statue of St. Patrick, which was erected in 1932 to mark the coming of the Saint to Ireland in 432AD.

Built in approximately 1199 by the Norman Knight and Lord Chief Justice of Ireland, Richard de Tuite, Granard Motte and Bailey is one of the best examples of an Anglo-Norman fortification in the country. Its purpose was to extend Norman control and was built within a pre-existing ringfort. It is likely that both animals and soldiers were once housed within this bailey.

There are a number of myths attached to Granard, some saying that there is a hidden castle, while others say there is gold held here.

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