Built in 1618 by Richard Burke, 4th Earl of Clanricard, this semi-fortified Jacobean mansion represents a fascinating architectural transition; caught between the defensive castles of medieval Ireland and the grand country houses that would follow. The rectangular structure, measuring roughly 25 metres east to west and 18 metres north to south, rises three storeys above a basement, with a distinctive square tower projecting from each corner. Though gutted by fire in 1826 after more than two centuries of occupation by Burke’s descendants, the house has been meticulously restored by the Office of Public Works between 1989 and 1995, complete with reinstated roofing, flooring, and windows.

The building cleverly balances defensive features with domestic comfort. Visitors approach through two walled forecourts with gateways, leading to a defended Tuscan doorway on the north wall. Look closely and you’ll spot the machicolation above the second-floor doorway, ready to rain down unpleasantries on unwelcome guests, whilst shot holes pierce the projecting towers. Yet these martial elements sit alongside more refined architectural details: elegant string courses run between the second and third floors of the towers, and the windows range from single lights to more elaborate two and three-light transom and mullioned designs. Formal gardens now occupy the forecourts, with a kitchen garden to the northeast, softening the building’s fortress-like appearance.

The location itself tells a deeper story of Portumna’s layered history. About 370 metres south-southeast lie the remains of Black Castle, the earlier stronghold of the O’Madden clan, whilst a friary sits roughly 250 metres east-southeast. Now designated as National Monument 515 and open to the public on its ground floor, Portumna Castle offers visitors a chance to walk through a pivotal moment in Irish architectural history, when the necessities of defence began giving way to the luxuries of comfortable living.