Bawn, Ballyconor Big, Co. Wexford
The historic complex at Ballyconor Big in County Wexford sits on level ground with a small stream running north to south about 90 metres to the west.
Bawn, Ballyconor Big, Co. Wexford
At its heart stands a tower house alongside a 16th century dwelling, which together form the eastern boundary of what was once a fortified enclosure. This rectangular space, measuring 34 metres east to west and 24 metres north to south, represents a classic example of an Irish bawn; a defensive courtyard that would have protected both people and livestock during times of conflict.
The northern edge of this enclosure is marked by a chapel and various outhouses, whilst remnants of the western wall still stand about a metre high. This defensive wall contains a blocked embrasure, one of the narrow openings that would have allowed defenders to fire weapons whilst remaining protected behind the stonework. Such features were essential elements of these fortified homesteads, which dotted the Irish landscape during the turbulent medieval and early modern periods.
Together, these structures tell the story of a once thriving settlement that combined domestic, religious and defensive functions in a single compact site. The presence of both the tower house and the later 16th century residence suggests the site remained important for several centuries, adapting to changing times whilst maintaining its strategic position in the Wexford countryside.





