This impressive earthwork features a large conical mound with steep sides and a flattened summit measuring 19 metres across. The builders cleverly incorporated the ridge’s natural slopes into their defensive scheme; whilst they dug a fosse, or defensive ditch, around the base of the mound on the north and south sides where extra protection was needed, they left the east and west sides unfortified, relying instead on the steep valley slopes to deter any would-be attackers.

The motte’s construction shows the strategic thinking of Norman castle builders who arrived in Ireland during the 12th century. These artificial mounds typically supported wooden towers or palisades on their summits, serving as watchtowers and last-resort defensive positions. The scarped edges of the Glendine motte, combined with its commanding view over the western valley, would have made it a formidable stronghold in its day.

Whilst no physical evidence remains of a bailey, the fortified courtyard that typically accompanied such mottes, archaeological assessment suggests it was likely positioned to the north along the esker ridge’s crest. This would have been the logical location for the everyday buildings; stables, workshops, and living quarters; that supported the castle’s garrison and any local population under its protection. The site represents a classic example of how medieval military engineers worked with Ireland’s glacial landscape features to create effective fortifications.