Carrigaholt Castle was built in about 1480 by the McMahons of West Corca Baiscin. It has a fiery and colorful history including rebellions and battles between Teigue McMahon and the Earl of Thomond, and the pirating of merchant ships headed for Limerick. Also later in the 1600’s it was the home of the Clare Dragoons under the command of Daniel O’Brien, son of Conor, the Earl of Thomond.
Erosion over the years had become a very serious threat to the castle which was in imminent danger of being undermined by tidal forces and could have resulted in the destruction of this historic landmark.
The excavated site revealed the remains of a manor house, once adjoining the castle tower, which proved very interesting to a group of archeologists.
Explore also the Blarney Stone – one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland.