If you're planning a trip to the awe-inspiring natural wonder of the Cliffs of Moher in 2023, you're in for a treat. The Cliffs of Moher are not only a breathtaking natural wonder, but they are also surrounded by several historical sites that offer a glimpse into Ireland's rich history and culture. In this blog post, we'll explore four must-see historical sites near the Cliffs of Moher: O'Brien's Tower, Moher Tower at Hag's Head, Dough Castle, and Doonagore Castle. From iconic landmarks with panoramic views to ancient ruins with fascinating stories, these historical sites are sure to captivate your imagination as you explore the countryside around the Cliffs of Moher.
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O'Brien's Tower
If you're planning a trip to the breathtaking natural wonder of the Cliffs of Moher in 2023, make sure to visit O'Brien's Tower, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views like no other. Built in 1835 by Sir Cornelius O'Brien, a local landlord and MP, O'Brien's Tower was initially intended to cater to English tourists who flocked to the cliffs during that time. However, there's also a fascinating tale that suggests O'Brien built the tower to impress the ladies he was courting. Whatever the reason, this tower has become an iconic symbol of The Cliffs of Moher.
Perched atop the cliffs, O'Brien's Tower is an observation tower that also served as a teahouse, complete with a large round table and ironwork seats. From the top of the tower, visitors can soak in awe-inspiring views that stretch as far as Loop Head and beyond to the majestic mountains of Kerry. On clear days, you can catch glimpses of the Twelve Bens in Connemara, also known as the Twelve Pins, from the tower's north-facing side, along with the stunning Aran Islands to the west. Over the years, O'Brien's Tower has undergone renovations and changes, but it remains a vital part of the region's tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors annually.
So, if you're planning a trip to The Cliffs of Moher in 2023, be sure to include a visit to O'Brien's Tower in your itinerary. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the cliffs, soak in the panoramic views, and experience a piece of Ireland's rich history and culture. Don't miss out on this incredible landmark that has captured the hearts of travelers for generations!
Moher Tower at Hag's Head
Are you planning a trip to The Cliffs of Moher in 2023? Don't miss the opportunity to explore Moher Tower, a fascinating stone ruin with a rich history. Located at Hag's Head, the southern end of the Cliffs of Moher, Moher Tower is a relic from the Napoleonic era, built around 1808 as a lookout and signaling tower during the tumultuous times of the Napoleonic Wars.
Moher Tower stands close to the site of an earlier promontory fort called Mothar or Moher, which is mentioned in historical accounts from John Lloyd's "A Short Tour of Clare" in 1780. The original fortification stood until at least 1780 but was later demolished in 1808 to provide materials for the construction of the new tower.
During Napoleon's reign in Europe, similar towers were built along Atlantic coasts as a defensive measure against potential invasions. Moher Tower was one of these structures, serving as a lookout and signaling point to protect the coastline. Today, visitors can explore the stone ruins of Moher Tower and imagine the historical significance it once held during a time of war and turmoil.
As you plan your trip to The Cliffs of Moher in 2023, make sure to include a visit to Moher Tower on your itinerary.
Dough Castle
With a history that dates back to 1306, Dough Castle has witnessed centuries of events and has a captivating story to tell.
Originally established by the O'Connors in 1306, Dough Castle served as their principal stronghold at the mouth of the Inagh River. However, none of the original structures remain today. In 1471, the chieftain of the O'Connors was tragically murdered in the castle by his nephews, and a cairn was erected in his memory, giving rise to the official Irish name for Lahinch.
Over the years, Dough Castle passed into the hands of the O'Briens in 1584, who provided shelter to English settlers during the Irish rebellion of 1641. During the Cromwellian period, the castle was saved from demolition by Colonel Stubber. In 1654, it was described as a tall battlemented tower with a large two-storey dwelling house attached to one side. However, due to poor foundations on sandbanks, the castle collapsed multiple times, with significant portions falling in 1839 and 1883.
Today, the present ruin of Dough Castle is what remains of the O'Brien tower, and it is located on Lahinch Golf Course. Despite its tumultuous past, the castle stands as a romantic ruin, shrouded in legends of Donn Dumhach, a sí prince who is said to still haunt the area.
If you're a history buff or simply appreciate the allure of ancient ruins, a visit to Dough Castle is a must if you have time to spare after marveling at the magnificent cliffs!
Doonagore Castle
Doonagore Castle, located in County Clare, Ireland, is a round tower house that dates back to the 16th century. Currently, Doonagore Castle is a private holiday home and is not accessible to the public however its location along the winding Atlantic backroads of County Clare makes it well worth it for a drive by visit!
The castle was built on or near the site of an earlier ringfort during the 14th century. In 1583, much of the property in the area was surrendered to the Crown and regranted to Turlough O'Brien of Ennistymon.
In September 1588, a ship of the Spanish Armada was wrecked below the castle, and 170 survivors were caught by the High Sheriff of Clare, Boetius Clancy, and hanged at Doonagore Castle or on a nearby Iron Age barrow called Cnocán an Crochaire (Hangman's Hill).
In the late 17th or early 18th century, the castle came into the possession of the Gore family, leading to the false etymology of "Gore's Castle." They repaired the castle in the early 19th century, but by 1837, it had fallen into disrepair once again.
In the 1970s, the castle was restored by architect Percy Le Clerc for a private purchaser named John C. Gorman, an Irish-American whose family still owns the castle today.
Despite being inaccessible to the public, Doonagore Castle stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural heritage of Ireland, with its intriguing past and stunning structure making it a noteworthy and majestic landmark in rural County Clare.
As you plan your trip to The Cliffs of Moher in 2023, be sure to include a visit to these four historical sites in your itinerary, if you are lucky enough to have the use of a car - or can blag a lift off a local! From O'Brien's Tower, which offers panoramic views of the cliffs and beyond, to Moher Tower at Hag's Head, a relic from the Napoleonic era, to the romantic ruins of Dough Castle with its intriguing history, to the picturesque Doonagore Castle, these historical sites add depth and richness to your experience of the Cliffs of Moher. Immerse yourself in Ireland's history and culture as you marvel at the stunning natural beauty of this iconic region.