This small but significant motte, measuring 4 metres in height with a base diameter of 25 metres, sits strategically on the southeastern bank of what was once an early ecclesiastical enclosure surrounding the monastic town of Lorrha. A stream flows immediately to the east, whilst the parish church lies to the west, creating a landscape that has been shaped by both religious and military influences for over 800 years.

The site’s turbulent history reflects the power struggles of medieval Ireland. The original castle at Lorrha met its destruction in 1208 at the hands of Muirchertach Ua Briain, only to be rebuilt by the Justiciar of Ireland in 1221. By the 14th century, the manor of Lorrha had become part of the extensive lands of William de Burgo, with records from 1335 noting the presence of a grange and mill in the town. The Bishop of Killaloe held the manor during this period, highlighting the continued ecclesiastical influence over what had become a fortified settlement.

Archaeological examination by Talbot in 1972 revealed intriguing details about the motte’s construction, particularly after the eastern half had been removed. The investigation suggested that builders created the mound by first forming a ringwork, then filling it in from the sides to achieve the desired height; a technique that speaks to the engineering skills of medieval castle builders. Today, visitors can still trace the wide, shallow fosse that encircles the flat-topped mound, measuring 3.7 metres in width, along with evidence of a bailey area to the west that once formed part of this defensive complex.