It was a slow sleepy kind of morning, like most Irish mornings, when we arrived at Aughnanure Castle. Our early arrival did not match the flavor of the day because along with other early risers we had to wait for the arrival of staff to open the gate to the castle. We used the time to enjoy the walk along the Drimneen River that borders the exterior wall of the castle.

Aughnanure Castle is a perfect example of the Irish Tower Houses built during the sixteenth century. The O'Flaherty clan built this particular stronghold around 1500. During that period of time they were known as the "ferocious O'Flaherties" because they were the ruthless masters of the entire territory of lar-Connacht extending from the west bank of Lough Corrib to the sea.

This castle has defensive features, including the Watch Tower, two sets of walls or bawns, machicolations, bartizans, gun loops and murder holes. It is in excellent condition considering it is five hundred years old. We very much enjoyed our visit there.