Direction Ireland

Athenry Castle

West Ireland | County Galway

The castle located in Athenry, County Galway was built around 1235 by Meiler de Bermingham as a anglo-norman stronghold. Because of strong resistance of native population, in 1346 Athenry was enclosed by defensive walls with six tower gates of which five is still standing. Initially the castle had only two storeys, the basement with vaulted celling at ground level and at first floor the Great Hall with fine, floral motifs carved on the exterior of the doorway and on the inner side of two of the window openings, which at that time were rather unique in castles, and typical for monastic buildings. The only access to the castle was by an external wooden stairs leading to the Great Hall doorway, similar to the present reconstruction. Already in 1250, the castle was raised to form a much higher living area. In 15th century roof was raised what created additional floor and the castle probably became a garrison for the soliders, while de Bermingham family moved to newly built, more comfortable house in the town. In 1597, during the Nine Year's War the Athenry Castle was conquered and destroyed by Red Hugh O'Donnell. In the late 1980's Office of Public Works began restoration and after its completed the castle was opened for touring.

• OPENING HOURS :
  • 24th March - 1st October:
    • Daily: 9:30 - 18
    • Last admission: 17:15
  • 2nd October - 26th October:
    • Mon-Thu: 9:30 - 17
    • Last admission: 16:15
• TICKET PRICES :
  • Adult: €4
  • Senior/Group: €3
  • Child/Student: €2
  • Family: €10
• CONTACT :
  • Phone: +353 (0)91 844797
• CAR PARK :
  • City car park