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Location
near Doolin, County Clare, Ireland
Description
Doonagore Castle is situated on a hill about half way between the village of Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher on the County Clare coast.
The castle is a round tower house with a small courtyard enclosed by a defensive wall. With its elevated position overlooking Doolin Point, the castle serves as a navigational landmark for boats approaching Doolin Pier.
Facilities
Doonagore Castle is a private holiday home, and not open to the public.
History
Doonagore Castle was built in the 16th century, although an earlier castle stood on the site since the 1300s. The castle was granted to Sir Turlough O'Brien of Ennistymon in 1582. During the retreat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, one of the fleeing Spanish ships was shipwrecked off the coast and 170 survivors were captured and hanged at Doonagore Castle. The castle had started to fall into disrepair by the early 1800s, and was repaired by Counselor Gore, but again deteriorated by the middle of the 19th century. In the 1970's, it was restored by architect Rex MacGovern for an American buyer named O'Gorman. The castle is still owned by the O'Gorman family.
Other Castles in the Area
Ballinalacken Castle, County Clare
Dysert O'Dea Castle, County Clare
Gleninagh Castle, County Clare
Leamaneh Castle, County Clare
Newtown Castle, County Clare
O Brien's Tower, County Clare
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