Ballyshannon Castle facts for kids

Ballyshannon Castle was a very old castle located in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, Ireland. It was a strong fortress for the powerful O’Donnell family. Today, you won't see any parts of the castle above the ground. It's all gone!

The Story of Ballyshannon Castle

Ballyshannon Castle was built in 1423 by a man named Niall Garbh Ó Domhnaill. He built it to control a crossing point over the River Erne. This was an important spot for travel and trade.

In 1522, the castle was attacked and taken over by Conn O'Neill, who was a powerful leader. His army looted and damaged the castle.

Later, in 1597, a big fight called the Battle of Ballyshannon happened here. Sir Conyers Clifford and his army tried to capture the castle. But Hugh Roe O'Donnell and his forces fought back strongly. They pushed Sir Conyers Clifford's army away after three days of fighting.

In 1606, the O'Donnell family lost their power and land. The castle was then given to Henry Folliot.

The castle was completely taken down in 1720. A building for soldiers and their horses, called a cavalry barracks, was built where the castle once stood. By the early 1900s, the site had become a market. People used it to sell farm goods.