Aughnanure Castle

Oughterard, Ireland, Ireland

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Aughnanure Castle is a well-preserved medieval tower house located near Oughterard in County Galway, Ireland. Built in the late 15th century, it served as the stronghold of the powerful O'Flaherty clan, who ruled much of the Connemara region for centuries. The castle stands on a rocky site beside the Drimneen River, close to Lough Corrib, reflecting the family's tradition of establishing fortified residences near waterways. Today, visitors can explore the six-storey tower, defensive walls, watchtower, banqueting hall, and other historic features that offer a glimpse into life in medieval Ireland. Carefully restored in the 1960s and later opened to the public, Aughnanure Castle is considered one of the best-preserved examples of a Gaelic tower house in Ireland and is a popular attraction for those interested in Irish history and heritage.