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Loop Head Peninsula - Carrigaholt - Distant Castle Ruins

The castle was built by the McMahons in 1480. It is a 5-storey tower house with a fiery and colourful history. In 1588, seven ships of the Spanish Armada anchored at Carrigaholt to seek aid. Aid was denied and the castle was unsuccessfully besieged. In 1589, the castle was captured after a 4-day siege and all defenders of the castle were hanged. Ownership was passed on to Donal O'Brien. After forfeiture of his 57,000 estate by the Williamites, the castle was acquired by the Burton family, the last inhabitants who left in the late 19th century. Today, the castle is under the care of the Office of Public Works. It is located at the end of a fishing pier that overlooks the Shannon Estuary.