Carrignacurra Castle

Killeens, Ireland, Ireland

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Carrignacurra Castle is a historic stone tower house located in Killeens, County Cork, Ireland, on a rocky site beside the River Lee near the village of Inchigeelagh. It was built as the principal stronghold of the O'Leary clan, most likely during the 15th or 16th century, and was strategically positioned to guard a river crossing and an important local route. The castle is a four-storey defensive structure featuring thick stone walls, gun loops, a spiral staircase, and other medieval military elements designed to protect its occupants. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times during periods of conflict and political upheaval in Ireland, including ownership by the O'Sullivan Beare and MacCarthy families. Today, Carrignacurra Castle is recognized as an important example of Ireland's medieval tower-house architecture and is listed in the National Monuments record. Archaeological discoveries at the site, including medieval coins, have provided further insights into its long history and the significance of the area.