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Dysert O'Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre: A Journey Through Medieval Ireland

Explore a 15th-century Gaelic tower house and discover local artifacts from 1000 BC on the Dysert O'Dea Archaeology Trail in County Clare.

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Explore the authentically restored 15th-century Dysert O'Dea Castle, the former stronghold of the O'Dea clan, now home to the Clare Archaeology Centre. Discover a rich collection of artifacts, explore the castle's many rooms, and walk along the roof for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

A brief summary to Dysert O'Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the castle and surrounding archaeological trail.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully experience the castle and its exhibits.
  • Visit between May and September when the castle is open daily.
  • Pick up a trail guide at the castle to learn about the 25 monuments on the Archaeology Trail.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Dysert O'Dea Castle is located approximately 5 km south of Corofin, County Clare, and is signposted on the R476 road. From Ennis, take the N85 northwest and then the R476 north. Look for the Dysert O'Dea sign and turn left (west). Free car and coach parking is available on-site. Note that the road leading to the castle is narrow in places.

  • Public Transport

    From Ennis, Local Link Limerick Clare operates a bus that stops at Dysert O'Dea Monastery. The bus departs from Ennis Bus Station once a week on Tuesday and the journey takes about 17 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi from Ennis to Dysert O'Dea costs approximately €19-€24.

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Discover more about Dysert O'Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre

Dysert O'Dea Castle, near Corofin in County Clare, offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland's medieval past. Built between 1470 and 1490 by Diarmaid O'Dea, Lord of Cineal Fearmaic, the castle stands as a testament to the power and influence of the O'Dea clan. The site itself has even older significance, as it was the location of the Battle of Dysert O'Dea in 1318, which resulted in the departure of Anglo-Normans from the region for over 200 years. The castle experienced a turbulent history, changing hands several times before falling into ruin. In 1651, Cromwellian forces damaged the upper floors. It wasn't until 1970 that John O'Day, an American descendant of the O'Dea clan, purchased and began restoring the castle. In 1986, it reopened as the Dysert O'Dea Castle Archaeology Centre. Today, visitors can explore the castle's ten rooms across four floors, which house the Clare Archaeology Centre. The center features exhibits of local artifacts dating back to 1000 BC, a medieval carpenter and mason's workshop, and a 'Modern History Room' with objects from 1700 AD up to 2000 AD. A highlight is the wall walk at the top of the castle, offering stunning views. In addition to the castle, the surrounding area contains over 25 field monuments of historical and archaeological interest, dating from 1000 BC to 1850 AD. These monuments, along with the castle, form the Dysert O'Dea Archaeology Trail, which includes St. Tola's Church, featuring a Romanesque doorway, a round tower, and a high cross.

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