Ballymote Castle

Ballymote, Ireland, Ireland

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Ballymote Castle is a large Anglo-Norman fortress located in County Sligo, Ireland.

Built around 1300 by Richard de Burgh, the Red Earl of Ulster, it was one of the strongest castles in Connacht and was designed to help secure Norman control of the region. The castle is notable for its almost square layout, massive stone walls, twin-towered gatehouse, and six defensive towers. Unlike many medieval castles, it was built without a central keep, making it one of the best examples of a “keepless” Norman castle in Ireland.

Over the centuries, Ballymote Castle passed between several powerful Irish and Norman families and played a role in major historical conflicts. It is also closely associated with the famous medieval manuscript known as the Book of Ballymote, which was compiled near the castle in the late 14th century. Today, the impressive ruins remain one of County Sligo’s most important historic landmarks.