Site of Castle, Kiltullagh, Co. Galway
On the southeast bank of Kiltullagh Lough in County Galway, a rectangular mound of collapsed masonry marks the site of what was once a functioning castle.
Site of Castle, Kiltullagh, Co. Galway
Historical records show this fortification existed as early as 1574, when it belonged to one Hubert Oconchanon. Today, the grassed-over remains measure roughly 10.5 metres in length, 7.5 metres in width, and stand about 2.2 metres high; a modest reminder of what would have been an imposing defensive structure in medieval Galway.
Though time has taken its toll on the castle, careful observation reveals traces of its original architecture. The inner face of the south wall can still be detected, whilst the north wall shows what appears to be a window embrasure. In the northeast corner, the faint outline of what was likely a stairwell remains visible. These subtle features offer tantalising glimpses into the castle’s original layout and construction, even as most of the structure has collapsed into rubble.
The castle wasn’t an isolated structure; evidence suggests it formed part of a larger defensive complex. To the south, earthworks hint at additional fortifications or ancillary buildings, whilst a low stone wall, possibly the remains of a bawn, curves around the monument from north through east to southeast. These surrounding features would have provided additional protection and likely enclosed domestic buildings, creating a self-contained stronghold typical of Irish tower houses during this period.