Granuaile's Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Granuaile's Castle |
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| Native name Irish: Caisleán Ghráinne |
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| Type | tower house |
| Location | Glen, Clare Island, County Mayo, Ireland |
| Height | 12 m (39 ft) |
| Built | 16th century |
| Owner | State |
| Official name: Granuaile's Castle | |
| Reference no. | 198 |
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Granuaile's Castle is an old stone tower, also known as a 'tower house'. It stands proudly on Clare Island in Ireland. This amazing building is also a special National Monument, meaning it's protected because of its history.
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Where is Granuaile's Castle?
Granuaile's Castle is found on the eastern side of Clare Island. This island is off the coast of County Mayo, in the west of Ireland. It's a beautiful spot with great views!
A Castle with a Story
Built for a Powerful Family
This castle was built a long time ago, in the 1500s. It was built by the powerful Ó Máille family. They were like the local rulers, known as the Kings of Umaill.
Home of a Pirate Queen
Granuaile's Castle was a very important home for Gráinne Ní Mháille. She was born around 1530 and lived until about 1603. You might know her better as Grace O'Malley, the famous "pirate queen"! She was a strong leader and sailor. This castle was one of her main strongholds. She also had other castles, like Rockfleet Castle and Carrickkildavnet Castle.
Later Uses of the Castle
Much later, in the 1820s, the castle changed its purpose. It was used as a police station for the Royal Irish Constabulary. During this time, some purple slate was added to the castle's round towers, called bartizans.
Inside the Castle
The main living area in the castle was on the first floor. From this room, people could get to the bartizans. These were small, round towers that stuck out from the castle walls. They also had access to a garderobe, which was like an old-fashioned toilet.
