Menlo Castle

Galway, Ireland, Ireland

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Menlo Castle, also known as Blake’s Castle, is a striking 16th century castle ruin located on the banks of the River Corrib near Galway City, Ireland. Originally built around 1569 as a fortified tower house, it later became the residence of the influential Blake family, one of the historic “Tribes of Galway,” and was expanded into a larger manor-style home over the centuries. The castle is best known for the tragic fire of July 1910, which destroyed much of the building while the family was away. Their daughter, Eleanor Blake, is believed to have died in the blaze, and her body was never recovered. After the fire, the castle was abandoned and gradually fell into ruin. Today, the ivy-covered remains of Menlo Castle are a popular historical landmark, admired for their picturesque setting and romantic atmosphere. The site offers visitors a glimpse into Galway’s rich past and continues to be the focus of preservation and restoration efforts.