Explore great Irish history and mythology at Grianan of Aile

Ancient Donegal site almost 4,000 years old

Be fascinated by wonderful tales of great Irish chieftains, prehistoric settlements, and magical myths. See one of Ireland's most impressive stone ring forts and enjoy spectacular views over five counties!

The very name suggests a regal and magical place! Various translated as "Stone Palace of the Sun" "Fortress of the Sun" and "Stone Temple of the Sun", Grianan of Aileach will fascinate you with its wonderful history and mythology.

Perched on the summit of Greenan Mountain, Grianan of Aileach is one of the most impressive stone ring forts in Ireland. The ring fort dates from the early Christian period but the earthworks that surround the fort are believed to date back almost 4,000 years to the Neolithic period.

Gaze and ponder on the antiquity of the place and the many remarkable tales associated with it. This is, indeed, an ancient spot... it was one of only five Irish locations marked on the 2nd century map of the world by Ptolemy of Alexandria.

The earthworks are the remains of a large hill fort that once enclosed the hill top, which is thought to have been built in the Late Bronze Age or Iron Age. Imagine what life was like in those far-off days. Keep in mind also how, with two sets of ramparts enclosing an area of about 2 hectares, this was the only hill fort of its type in the north of Ireland.

What mystery and legends await you when you reach the stone fort! But first take in your bearings and surroundings.

Spectacular views from massive fort
The fort itself is massive. The interior of the restored structure today has a diameter of 23.6m and is reached through a lintel-covered entrance passage 4.65m long and 1.86m high.

Step onto its ancient walls and take in the breathtaking views of five of the nine Ulster counties around you on a clear day! See also beautiful Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly.

Then go inside to explore its maze of passageways, chambers, tunnels and stairs. If those walls could speak! They might tell of how this fortress was the chief seat of the famous Ui Neill clan from the 5th to the 12th centuries. This tribe ruled the northern territories of Ireland and also had control, for a number of years, over all of the country as King of Tara, later to become known as Ard Ri or High High.

Conal and Eoghan were the two Clan members who established the Ui Neill kingdom in the north - their memory is proudly maintained today in the place names of the countryside around you. To the west is Tir Conaill (Conal's country), which is the Irish name for Donegal. The unique Inishowen region of north Donegal and neighbouring County Tyrone are named after Eoghan.

According to the Irish Annals, Grianan of Aileach was destroyed in 1101 by Murtagh O'Brien, the ruler of Thomond, as a reprisal for the Ui Neill's destruction of his royal seat at Kincora (at Killaloe, Co. Clare) some 13 years before.

As you lose yourself in the wonder of it all, consider the many other wonderful stories about Grianan of Aileach. One says it was built by the Tuatha De Danann God, and king of Ireland, "The Dagda" (or good god), to mark or protect the grave of his son Aedh. Another has 'Nuada of the Silver Hand', who fought 'Balor of the Evil Eye', being brought here for a royal burial!

Ireland's patron saint, St Patrick was said to visit the site in the 5th.Century and there is a holy well, known as 'St. Patrick's Well' on the site.

Be fascinated by the history and myths - which are often intertwined in a magical mix that will keep you spellbound as you explore.

And, before you leave this special location, take time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings as you stroll over 2kms of tranquil pathways through the Woods of Aileach.

For county profiles, suggested drives and great holiday ideas, click here

FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information on any of the items featured above, or on the county in general, please contact:

Fáilte Ireland North West
Aras Reddan
Temple Street
Sligo
Tel: 00353 (0) 7191 61201
Fax: 00353 (0) 719160360

Email: northwestinfo@failteireland.ie
Web: www.irelandnorthwest.ie