Grianan of Aileach, Inishowen, Ireland

The Grianan of Aileach is a hillfort atop the 244 metres high Greenan Mountain at Inishowen. The main structure is a stone ringfort, thought to have been built by the Northern Uí Néill, in the sixth or seventh century CE; although there is evidence that the site had been in use before the fort was built. It has been identified as the seat of the Kingdom of Ailech and one of the royal sites of Gaelic Ireland. The wall is about 4.5 metres thick and 5 metres high. Inside it has three terraces, which are linked by steps, and two long passages within it. Originally, there would have been buildings inside the ringfort. Just outside it are the remains of a well and a tumulus.

By the 12th century, the Kingdom of Ailech had become embattled and lost a fair amount of territory to the invading Normans. According to Irish literature, the ringfort was mostly destroyed by Muirchertach Ua Briain, King of Munster, in 1101. Substantial restoration work was carried out in 1870. Today, the site is protected as a national monument and is a tourist attraction.

References:

Wikipedia

Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Ireland

User Reviews

Robert Thornton-Smith (8 months ago)
Great location with a huge amount of history. Had lunch up on the sloped banks which was incredible with matching vires of the entire area. Lovely and cant recommend enough. Even had a small mobile coffee station

Richard Lowe-Jackson (9 months ago)
Awe inspiring. If visiting Ireland and you want to see a stone ring fort, then this is the one to visit. With the bonus if fantastic views of Lough Swilly and Inch Island

richard gil (9 months ago)
What views! Simply stunning. If you're in the area go and visit it. We had a picnic lunch in the carpark before going into and onto the monument. Unusually dry for Donegal but very windy up there. Access was free.

Iveta Ivanova (11 months ago)
Must visit for 369 views of inishowen and surrounding areas. Recommend to visit on a. Lead day for better views. Free parking available

Rajinder Singh (12 months ago)
Graiane of Aileach is like a magical castle hiding in the hills of Donegal. It's like stepping into a fairy tale with its old stone walls and stunning views all around. You can feel the history in every corner, imagining knights and kings roaming the halls. The best part is climbing up to the top of the tower. It's a bit of a climb, but totally worth it! Once you're up there, you can see for miles and miles. The landscape is so green and peaceful, you'll want to stay forever. Inside the castle, there are cool things to see, like ancient carvings and old artifacts. It's like going back in time and seeing how people used to live. Plus, the guides are super friendly and know all the stories about the castle. Even if you're not a history buff, Graiane of Aileach is still an awesome place to visit. The views alone are worth it, and you'll feel like you're in a whole other world. So if you're ever in Donegal, don't miss out on this magical castle!

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