Feartagar Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Feartagar Castle |
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| Native name Irish: Caisleán Fhearta Ghearr |
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| Jennings Castle | |
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| Type | tower house |
| Location | Castlegrove East, Kilconly, County Galway, Ireland |
| Built | 15th–17th century |
| Owner | State |
| Official name: Feartagar or Jennings Castle | |
| Reference no. | 428 |
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Feartagar Castle, also known as Jennings Castle, is an old and strong tower house in County Galway, Ireland. It is a special place, protected as a National Monument because of its history.
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Where to Find Feartagar Castle
Feartagar Castle is built on a small hill. It is about 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles) east of Kilconly. The castle is also about 8.4 kilometers (5.2 miles) northwest of Tuam. It stands close to the River Nanny.
History of Feartagar Castle
Who Built Feartagar Castle?
This tower house was built a long time ago, between the 15th and 17th centuries. It was built by the de Burgos family, also known as the Burkes. They were a very powerful family in Connacht for many centuries.
The Burkes and King John
The Burkes were descendants of William de Burgh. He was an Anglo-Norman knight who lived around 1160 to 1205. William de Burgh was a close friend of King John of England.
Changes in Ownership
In 1651, the Burkes lost control of the castle. This happened during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland. After this, the castle was owned by the Blakes of Tuam. Later, it came into the hands of the Jennings family. This is why it is also called Jennings Castle.
What Feartagar Castle Looks Like
Feartagar Castle is a tall building with five floors. Its base measures about 12 by 10 meters (39 by 33 feet). It has many interesting features that show how it was built to be strong.
Special Features of the Castle
- Round Towers: Each corner of the castle has a small, round tower called a bartizan. These were used for defense.
- Machicolation: Above the main doorway, there is a machicolation. This was an opening in the floor that allowed defenders to drop things on attackers below.
- Latrine Chute: The castle also has a latrine chute. This was a simple toilet system that dropped waste outside the castle walls.
- Vaulted Ceiling: The second floor of the castle has a vaulted ceiling. This means it has an arched, stone roof.
- Stone Staircases: Inside, there are two stone staircases. These connect the different floors of the tower house.
Images for kids
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The entrance gate of Feartagar Castle.
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Close-up view of the bartizans on the castle corners.
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