Moygara Castle Travel Guide

Nestled in the rolling countryside of southern County Sligo, Moygara Castle stands as a testament to the region's Gaelic heritage. Dating back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this castle was once the stronghold of the O'Gara clan, who ruled the area around Lough Gara.The castle's design is distinguished by its large square bawn, measuring approximately 51 meters by 51 meters, with residential towers at each of the four corners. A gatehouse, now in ruins, once stood along the western side, providing access to the castle grounds. While the castle is now in ruins, the remaining structure showcases the ingenuity of its builders, with intricate stonework and a strategic layout. Gun loops located along the walls and towers, along with a fireplace in one of the towers, are still visible.Over the centuries, Moygara Castle has witnessed its share of conflict. It was attacked in 1538 by O'Donnell and again in 1581 by mercenary Scots, who burned the buildings. In 1654, Fearghal O'Gadhra, the last owner of the castle, was evicted by Cromwell's army. Today, the castle is on privately owned land. The Moygara Castle Research and Conservation Group has been working since 2005 to highlight the castle's importance and work towards its conservation.