Dungannon Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dungannon Castle |
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| Dungannon, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland | |
 Dungannon Castle
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| Coordinates | 54°30′20″N 6°46′04″W / 54.50565°N 6.7678°W |
| Site information | |
| Condition | Ruin |
Dungannon Castle was an important castle located in Dungannon, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It stood on a high hill, giving it a great view of the land around it.
Contents
History of Dungannon Castle
Early Beginnings
The first castle on this spot was built in 1305 by Domnall O'Neill. It was placed on what is now called Castle Hill. This hill was one of the highest points in the area. From here, people could see for miles around. On a clear day, you could even see seven different counties!
Later, in the 1400s, a strong tower house was built on the same site. Conn Mor O'Neill lived there around 1483.
Times of Conflict
The castle saw many battles and changes over the years. In 1559, Shane O'Neill burned the castle down. He did this to stop English forces from using it. The O'Donnells, another powerful family, also destroyed parts of the castle in 1590.
The castle was burned again in 1595 and 1602. This happened during the Nine Years' War. This was a big conflict between Irish lords and the English Crown. Hugh O'Neill, 2nd Earl of Tyrone ordered the burning. He wanted to prevent English forces, led by Lord Mountjoy, from taking it over.
New Owners and Rebuilding
In 1607, many Irish leaders, including Hugh O'Neill, left Ireland. This event is known as the Plantation of Ulster. After this, the town of Dungannon and its castle were given to Sir Arthur Chichester. He was a key person in the Plantation, which brought many new settlers to Ulster.
Chichester rebuilt the castle. However, it was attacked and captured in 1641 by Felim O'Neill of Kinard. The castle was damaged on purpose, or "slighted," again in 1690. This meant parts of it were pulled down to make it unusable.
Later, the land was sold to Thomas Knox, 1st Earl of Ranfurly. He built a large mansion house where the castle once stood. Today, only two ruined towers remain from this later building.
Modern Use and Discoveries
In 1950, the British Army took over the site. They used it as a security base during The Troubles. This was a period of conflict in Northern Ireland. After the army, the police used the site. Finally, in August 2007, the land was given back to the local council.
Archaeologists have explored the castle site. It was partly dug up in 2003. In October 2007, the TV show Time Team also excavated there. They found parts of the castle's moat and walls.
