Ballylahan Castle

Ummoon, County Mayo, Ireland, Ireland

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Ballylahan Castle is a striking 13th-century Norman fortress located near the River Moy in County Mayo. Built by Jordan de Exeter, Sheriff of Connacht, it served as the ancestral stronghold of the MacJordan (Mac Siúrtáin) family and was strategically positioned to control an important river crossing and the surrounding area. The castle played a significant role in medieval Connacht and was heavily attacked in 1316 by Fedlim Ó Conchobair, King of Connacht, during a period of conflict between Gaelic Irish and Norman forces. Although badly damaged, parts of the fortress survived, including sections of its defensive walls, gatehouse, and one of its distinctive round towers. Today, Ballylahan Castle is a protected National Monument and one of County Mayo’s most important medieval ruins. Its dramatic remains and rich history provide a fascinating insight into the Norman presence in western Ireland and the turbulent events of the Middle Ages.