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All 9 Letterkenny Attractions »

Grianan Aileach Ring Fort

Burt, Letterkenny, Ireland
353-77-68512
4.5 of 5 stars 30 Reviews
Type: Ancient Ruins, Historic Sites
Owner description: Legend says it was built by the ancient gods; the ring fort was known as the Sun Palace and was held sacred. Traces of ancient earthworks, dating to... more » Owner description: Legend says it was built by the ancient gods; the ring fort was known as the Sun Palace and was held sacred. Traces of ancient earthworks, dating to the early Iron Age, surround the fort, enclosing an area of about 5 acres (0.02 km2). The fort itself was probably built in the early centuries of the Christian era. From the 5th to the 12th century AD it served as the royal seat of the O Neill sept of Aileach; it was destroyed by Murtogh O Brien, king of Munster in 1101. To make the demolition complete, the king ordered each of his soldiers to take away a stone from the fort. Grianan of Aileach was reconstructed by Dr Bernard of Derry in 1870, but archaeologists are doubtful about the inner restoration. Surrounding the stone fort are three concentric low walls which formed part of the original fortification of the fort. « less
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30 reviews from our community

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Vista, California
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
Reviews in 6 cities Reviews in 6 cities
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 May 2012 NEW

I visited An Grianan Alleach twice. The first was to do some research for a story. I went and sat among the stones of this restored fort quite alone, until a group of people came in with a stage set-up. They were prepping for the Ancient Arts Festival to be held the next day. I met a number of the... More

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See 2 more reviews by Marc N for Letterkenny
Derry, United Kingdom
Top Contributor
85 reviews 85 reviews
Reviews in 37 cities Reviews in 37 cities
167 helpful votes 167 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 21 May 2012

We went to the Festival on Sunday 20th May. The ringfort sits on the hill of Grianan which is 244 metres high. Wonderful views from the top. Myth claims the fortress was built by king Daghda of Tuatha de Danann and his son Aeah is believed to be buried in the centre of the fortress. The fort was reconstructed in... More

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See 2 more reviews by MrsDoherty for Letterkenny
Wokingham, United Kingdom
Contributor
19 reviews 19 reviews
Reviews in 11 cities Reviews in 11 cities
28 helpful votes 28 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 17 May 2012

The structure itself is a simple, circular stone hill fort. It is very well kept/reconstructed - a fine example of a 1400+ year old historical building. And the view is spectacular. a 360 degree view of hills, valleys, fields, loughs - even the sea in the distance (on the right day!). Definitely worth a visit.

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donegal
Contributor
18 reviews 18 reviews
Reviews in 13 cities Reviews in 13 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 16 May 2012

don't pass it,beautiful fort,amazing scenery and don't forget the camera.

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Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Reviewer
3 reviews 3 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 13 May 2012

This ringed stone circle/fort lies on a hill which allows a commanding view on all sides; ascending to it, standing within its ring, or looking out over the terrain, one can imagine oneself in earlier times. We went on a windy, rainy day so the view -- though extensive -- was limited. The harsh weather made the visit more poignant,... More

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Nottingham, United Kingdom
Senior Contributor
31 reviews 31 reviews
Reviews in 15 cities Reviews in 15 cities
22 helpful votes 22 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 1 May 2012

If you have no interest in ancient history, go there for the views! The vista is amazing. If you are interested in celtic history, again, go there! There's a little information but really its the feeling there that's quite amazing. There's no charge but be careful looking for the road taking you up!

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ballybofey
Contributor
18 reviews 18 reviews
Reviews in 6 cities Reviews in 6 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 29 April 2012

the view is super and the command it must have had when it was a defense is clear to see but a clear day is special here

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See 6 more reviews by brian c for Letterkenny
Belfast
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 18 April 2012

Have been many times and always go back. The views are spectacular . The hotel below does wonderful lunches at a good price.

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See 2 more reviews by Paula M for Letterkenny
Dublin
Contributor
18 reviews 18 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 15 April 2012

Cool fort, great views and easy to get to also! worth the trip!

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See 3 more reviews by ronanocathain for Letterkenny
County Down
Senior Reviewer
6 reviews 6 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 12 April 2012

Wonderful structure with great views over Lough Swilly and Inishowen

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