Bective abbey was founded in 1147 by Murchad O’Maeil-Sheachlainn, as a second house of Mellifont Abbey. The abbey and its estate lands were confiscated during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s. Around this time the estate lands were recorded at 1580 acres. During the 17th century, the abbey buildings were partially converted for…… Continue reading Bective Abbey
Tag: ruin
Castle Saunderson
The Saunderson family acquired the original castle during the Ulster plantation. The original castle was inhabited by the O’Reillys of Breffni and formerly known as Breffni Castle. The present castle dates from the 1840s. One notable member of the family born here was Edward Saunderson, a founder of the Ulster Unionist Party. Although unoccupied by…… Continue reading Castle Saunderson
Kilkea Castle
Kilkea Castle was erected in 1180 by Hugh de Lacy, the Earl of Ulster and the Chief Governor of Ireland, for Sir Walter de Riddlesford built a motte and bailey castle on the site in 1180. A grand daughter of his married Maurice Fitzgerald, and the Manor of Kilkea came into the possession of the…… Continue reading Kilkea Castle
Sliabh na Caillíghe
Loughcrew Determined now her tomb to build, Her ample skirt with stones she filled, And dropped a heap on Carnmore; Then stepped one thousand yards, to Loar, And dropped another goodly heap; And then with one prodigious leap Gained Carnbeg; and on its height Displayed the wonders of her might. And when approached death’s awful…… Continue reading Sliabh na Caillíghe