Donegal Castle was built in the 15th century by one of Ireland’s most prominent families: the O’Donnells. in Donegal’s medieval town center. Exceptionally well preserved, it is still open to visitors, to the delight of lovers of medieval history, stories between clan chiefs, and battles…
The castle was built in 1474 by the clan chief Hugh O’Donnell, one of the most important families of the time. Built on the banks of the River Eske, the castle was considered to be one of the most imposing ever owned by an Irish chieftain. The fortress was the pride of the family, and the castle was the talk of the region.
Unfortunately, the family had to leave Ireland for France during the Flight of the Earls. To avoid leaving the castle in the hands of the British who were hunting them down, the family decided to burn the castle themselves, leaving behind only stones and ashes.
In 1611, a wealthy local nobleman named Basil Brooke acquired the former O’Donnell lands and the ruined castle. Aware of the potential of the ancient fortress, he decided to launch a major restoration campaign, and at the same time decided to significantly enlarge the château by adding 3 floors. It’s thanks to this work that we know the château as it is today.
The fortress passed through the hands of numerous successors of the same family, until the castle fell into a state of disrepair. The Earl of Aran offered to buy it back, and in 1898 sold it free of charge to the Irish authorities, who were initially content to leave it as is.
It wasn’t until around 1990 that the Irish government decided to restore the castle from scratch and open it to the public. This decision made the castle Donegal’s star attraction!
Entrance to Donegal Castle costs between €3 and €5 per person, and preferably requires the presence of a guide, who will show you all the intricacies of the fortress. You’ll be able to admire the château’s exceptional furnishings and hand-crafted French tapestries. The rooms are absolutely magnificent, and their beds, like everything else, are of course period.
Don’t miss the marvelous banqueting room, beautifully decorated with a Persian carpet and a gigantic wooden table where the owner welcomed his guests.
During your visit, you’ll find a number of informative panels explaining the history of the château, from its beginnings to the present day.
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