Hugues de Lacy (1135-1186) was an Anglo-Norman who lived in Ireland in the 12th century. He was Lord of Meath, and Lord Justice of Ireland (Governor) from 1173 to 1177 and from 1179 to 1181. A major figure in the 12th century Norman Invasions, he is a key figure in Irish history…
Hugues de Lacy was born into a Norman family settled in England. His father, Gilbert de Lacy, was a wealthy Anglo-Norman baron with extensive holdings in Wales.
In 1172, Hugues de Lacy received the County of Meath from Henry II. Armed with these lands, Hugues de Lacy decided to leave England and settle in Ireland.
In 1173, his parents assassinated Domnall Breaghach Ua Maelsechlainn, the last king of the province of Mide (the ancient Irish province of County Meath and County Westmeath). It’s the perfect opportunity for Hugues de Lacy to seize the deceased sovereign’s lands, and make himself First Lord of Meath.
Hugues de Lacy’s power is now unassailable. Reigning over the whole of County Meath, Hugues de Lacy served the interests of Henry II of England by imposing his supremacy over the Irish. From then on, he commissioned the construction of several castles, including Trim Castle, Leighlinbridge Castle and Kilkea Castle. In the meantime, he ordered the destruction of numerous churches and monasteries in the region, despite Irish protests.
On the death of Richard Strongbow de Clare in 1176, De Lacy was appointed Lord Justice of Ireland (Governor of Ireland). He remained in this position until 1184, when he was replaced by Henry II, not satisfied with his policy in Ireland.
Despite his dismissal, De Lacy continued to rule County Meath until he was assassinated on July 25, 1186 by a group of Irishmen opposed to his actions, while building a motte castrale at Durrow in County Offaly. He was then beheaded and buried at Durrow Abbey, before being exhumed in 1195 and finally buried at Bective Abbey in County Meath. His head, meanwhile, is stored at St. Peter’s Abbey. Thomas from Dublin. In 1205, the body was eventually transferred to St. Peter’s Abbey. Thomas.
3.75/5 (4 votes)
