Carriganoura Castle, Drough, Co. Cork

Carriganoura Castle, Drough, Co. Cork

Perched on a rocky outcrop about 200 metres north of the Funshion River, the fragmentary ruins of Carriganoura Castle offer a glimpse into medieval Cork's defensive architecture.

Carriganoura Castle, Drough, Co. Cork

What remains today is primarily the castle’s north wall, stretching 6.2 metres, along with partial sections of the western wall at 6.61 metres and a much smaller eastern wall fragment of about 1.3 metres. The northwest corner still rises impressively to around 8 metres in height, whilst the northeast corner stands at a more modest 2 metres. These ivy-clad walls show clear signs of their defensive purpose, with the western wall featuring a slight external base batter; a sloping foundation designed to strengthen the structure against siege warfare.

The castle’s domestic features reveal intriguing details about medieval life within its walls. Near ground level at the northern end of the east wall, visitors can spot the remains of a garderobe outlet; essentially the medieval equivalent of a toilet chute. The north wall contains a blocked window opening, with its sill and part of the eastern jamb still visible, suggesting later modifications to the castle’s defences. Evidence of rebuilding work can be seen at the northern end of the west wall, indicating the castle underwent repairs or alterations during its occupation.

One of the most interesting architectural features is the spiral staircase that begins at first-floor level in the northwest corner, though the steps themselves have long since disappeared and the outer wall of the staircase has collapsed. This castle served as the stronghold of a branch of the Condon family, Anglo-Norman settlers who established themselves across Cork during the medieval period. The ruins stand as a testament to the turbulent history of North Cork, where such fortifications once dotted the landscape as symbols of power and protection.

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Drough, Co. Cork
52.26685893, -8.32332446
52.26685893,-8.32332446
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