Clare Island History
Grace O’ Malley Castle
The square tower that served as Grace O’Malley’s Castle overlooks the main harbour on Clare Island. This remarkable 16th-century pirate queen made Clare Island her stronghold, living by her family’s trade of piracy and plunder. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s history and marvel at the impressive feats that “Granuaile” led from this very building. Now, Grace O’Malley’s Castle draws many visitors as a key attraction in Clare Island’s history.
12th Century Cistercian Abbey
The 12th-century Cistercian Abbey stands about one mile west of Clare Island’s harbour, along the main road. Now, Grace O’Malley rests here, and the walls display mosaics believed to date back to the 14th century. In the 1990s, conservation teams carried out a major restoration project, and the State now maintains the Abbey. Beside it stand the Church of the Sacred Heart and the island’s graveyard.
Clare Islands Lighthouse
For almost 200 years, the island’s lighthouse has guided sailors from its perch high on the craggy cliffs, overlooking Achill Island, Westport, and beyond. Careful restoration has lovingly transformed this architecturally majestic listed building into fully catered, luxury accommodation. It now offers magnificent sea views and an inspiring natural setting. These are highlighted by the dramatic surrounding sea cliffs. You can find more information about Clare Island’s Lighthouse here.
Napoleonic Signal Tower
The ruins of a Signal Tower built in 1804 stand at the westernmost point of Clare Island, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It was built as an answer to the impending threat of a Napoleonic invasion. Now, this has become another tourist attraction for people who are interested in Clare Island History. The tower forms part of a network of interlinked coastal watchpoints, with the next one located to the north on Achill Island.
Megalithic Tombs/Promontory Forts
As well, the Megalithic tombs and promontory forts dot the island, and walkers can spot many of them along the island’s roads. Additionally, this gives an insight into the variety of the Clare Island History sites with one fort dating as far back as the Bronze Age 5500 years ago.
