Historical records show the castle was already established by 1574, when it appeared in documents as ‘Cloghane Kellebig’ castle under the ownership of someone known as ‘Mac Davy’, likely a member of the Nolan family. The choice of location, whilst not elevated, would have provided control over river crossings and local trade routes during the medieval period.

Today, only fragments of this once formidable structure survive. The most substantial remnant is the northern wall, stretching 13.4 metres in length and standing less than 2.8 metres high, featuring a distinctive base batter; a sloped foundation that helped strengthen medieval fortifications against undermining. Small sections of the eastern and western walls persist, each measuring roughly 2 metres, giving visitors just enough to trace the castle’s original footprint.

The architectural details that might tell us more about daily life within these walls have largely vanished with time. Only faint traces of an embrasure, a defensive opening that would have allowed defenders to fire arrows or early firearms whilst remaining protected, can still be detected in the northern wall. These sparse remains, documented in archaeological surveys from the early 20th century onwards, offer a tantalising glimpse into Galway’s turbulent past, when such fortifications dotted the landscape and local families like the Nolans held sway over their territories.