Irish fortifications

Cahir Castle

Located in Cahir in South Tipperary, this castle is one of Ireland's largest and well preserved. It is situated on a rocky island on the river Suir. Within the castle you will find an excellent audio-visual show, informing visitors of the attractions of the area, called "Partly Hidden and Partly Revealed" in English/French/German/Italian.

You will also find several exhibitions here. The castle became a National Monument in 1964 and the subject of conservation work by Public Works office. The castle is open all year round on all days except Mondays.

Admission charges are IR2.00 for an adult, IR1.00 for a child or student. Facilities include nearby parking and toilets.

Dunree Fort

Located in Inishowen, Donegal, Dunree was built during the Napoleonic wars, dating back to late eighteenth century. Dunree was maintained as a fort till about a decade ago and is presently a military museum.

Dubh Cathair

Located in Inishmore, Galway, the Dubh Cathair or Doocaher is more popular as 'The Black Fort'. It is a large stone-built fortification and the defences here consist of a great drystone wall around  nm200 feet long that curve across the neck of a cliffed limestone cape spectacularly undercut by the sea.

The rampart wall is terraced on three levels on the inside and rises between 15 and 18 feet in height.