Ballymarkahan Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballymarkahan Castle |
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County Clare, Ireland | |
![]() Ballymarkahan Castle, seen from S
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Coordinates | 52°48′14″N 8°50′13″W / 52.803867°N 8.836839°W |
Site history | |
Built | 15th century |
Built by | MacNamara family |
Ballymarkahan Castle is an old, ruined tower house found in County Clare, Ireland. A tower house is a type of strong, tall building often used as a home and for defense. This castle is located near the town of Quin.
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What is Ballymarkahan Castle?
Ballymarkahan Castle is a historic building that is now mostly in ruins. It was once a strong tower house. Experts like T. J. Westropp, a historian who studied old Irish buildings, listed it as one of the smaller castles in County Clare.
Who Built This Castle?
The castle was built by the powerful MacNamara family. This family was very important in the area. They built many castles in County Clare. Another famous castle they built nearby is Knappogue Castle.
When Was It Built?
Ballymarkahan Castle was built in the 1400s, during the 15th century. This was some time after the famous Quin Abbey was built nearby. According to old records, a person named Donall, who was the son of Shane an Gabhaltais, built it around the year 1430.
What Does It Look Like Now?
Even in the 1800s, Ballymarkahan Castle was already a ruin. Old maps and records from 1839 and 1842 show it as a ruined building. Today, it still stands as a reminder of its long history.