Castlekirk (Hen’s Castle)

Discover the majestic island castle on Lough Corrib

Welcome to enchanting Castlekirk, also known as Hen’s Castle, a captivating tower house that stands proudly on a half-acre island in the stunning Lough Corrib in Co. Galway. Steeped in history and legend, this ancient fortress has a tale to tell like no other.

Dating back to the early 12th century, Castlekirk is believed to be one of Ireland’s earliest mortared castles. It was skillfully constructed by the sons of Ruaidr na Saide Buide, along with William FitzAldelm, and has witnessed centuries of dramatic events.

In 1225, the Lord Justice Sir Edmond Butler played a pivotal role in Castlekirk’s history by compelling Odo O’Flaherty to surrender the castle to Aedh Ua Conchobair, the king of Connacht. The fortress faced destruction in 1233, only to be valiantly rebuilt by Fedlimid, the son of Cathal Crobhdearg Ua Conchobair.

But the intrigue doesn’t end there. Legend has it that the renowned Gráinne N’Mháille, also known as Grace O’Malley, bestowed the name “Hen’s Castle” upon it in 1546. This fiery pirate queen married Dónal an-Chogaidh O’Flaherty, nicknamed “the Cock” for his aggressive nature, and she was playfully called “the Hen.” After her husband’s tragic demise at the hands of the Joyces, Gráinne fiercely recaptured the castle, immortalizing its name.

Yet, the legends don’t stop with historical figures. According to local lore, the O’Flaherty family enlisted the help of a witch to weave her magic while a cock and a hen magically erected the castle. A truly fantastical tale!

Throughout its existence, Castlekirk endured various phases, including occupation by Cromwellian soldiers in 1654. Sadly, in the 19th century, the castle suffered further vandalism as its stones were pilfered to build neighboring homes.

Today, Castlekirk’s keep may be in ruins, but its majestic presence and rich history continue to draw visitors from far and wide. Standing on the shores of Lough Corrib, it whispers tales of legendary figures, fierce battles, and mystical wonders of the past. So, next time you find yourself near Galway, make sure to hop on a boat and explore the magical allure of Castlekirk Castle on Lough Corrib!

What to expect 🏰

Castlekirk location map

Stages of Castlekirk’s history

Early Origins and Construction of Castlekirk

The history of Castlekirk dates back to the early 12th century when it was constructed as an early tower house on a small island measuring half an acre in size. It is considered one of the earliest mortared castles in Ireland. Legend has it that the sons of Ruaidr na Saide Buide and William FitzAldelm were responsible for its creation.

The Castle’s Shifting Allegiances

Over the centuries, Castlekirk’s ownership changed hands multiple times due to political and territorial struggles. In 1225, the Lord Justice Sir Edmund Butler compelled Odo O’Flaherty to cede the castle to Aedh Ua Conchobair, the King of Connacht. Subsequently, the castle faced destruction and reconstruction under the rule of different leaders, including Fedlimid, Cathal Crobhdearg Ua Conchobair’s son.

The Pirate Queen and Transformation into Hen’s Castle

One of the most captivating stories associated with Castlekirk involves the legendary pirate queen Gráinne Mhaol, also known as Grace O’Malley. At the age of 16, she married Dónal an-Chogaidh O’Flaherty, who earned the nickname “The Cock” due to his aggressive nature. In response, Gráinne was called “The Hen.” After her husband’s death at the hands of the Joyces, a rival family, Gráinne courageously reclaimed the castle, leading it to be known as Hen’s Castle. It was still in use as a fortification until it was surrendered to Cromwellian troops in 1654.

Legends and Mysteries

Castlekirk’s past is filled with fantastical legends, one of which claims that a witch’s magic, with the assistance of a rooster and a hen, aided in its construction. The witch left behind the magic hen to protect the castle with the condition that it would remain safe as long as the hen was cared for. However, tragedy struck when the residents, facing harsh weather and dwindling supplies, consumed the miraculous hen, leading to the castle’s downfall.

The Present and Future

While Castlekirk’s interior now lies in ruins, its keep remains a remarkable sight, evoking images of its past glory when Gráinne Mhaol once ruled over the waters of Lough Corrib with her fleet. As visitors continue to explore this historic site and learn about its captivating history and legends, Castlekirk Castle will undoubtedly continue to be a place of intrigue and inspiration, preserving its mystique for generations to come.

Castlekirk (Hen’s Castle)