Location:1 km West of a village of Doolin Map
Constructed: 16th century
Doonagore Castle is a 16th century tower house surrounded by simple
wall. Doonagore Castle was constructed on a site of an older 14th
century citadel that was constructed by Tadgh MacTurlough MacCon
O'Connor.
In 1588 Spanish Invincible Armada was destroyed by storm. Scattered
ships and lucky survivors landed on different shores in this region
of Europe. However 170 sailors that landed here were less lucky.
They were captured by High Sheriff of County Clare, Boetius
MacClancy and subsequently hanged. Their bodies were buried in a
mound near Doolin, locally known as Cnocán an Crochaire. Doonagore
Castle was restored in the early 19th century and again in 1970's by
Rex MacGovern of Lardner & Partners. Today it is privately own and
tourists are not allowed on its ground without permission of the
owner. Many tourists come to this area, but not for the castle
interiors. Several haunting were reported around Doonagore Castle
that usually involves scenes of ghosts of Spanish sailors being
dragged from the shore to the castle. Legends claim that their souls
still seek revenge on High Sheriff who mistreated them and killed
them.