Grianan of Ailech - Grianán Ailigh

Grianan of Ailech (Irish: Grianán Ailigh) is a stone fort dating back to the sixth or seventh century which has had significant reconstruction. The walls now stand at about five metres in height and four and a half metres thick in places, which is higher than originally. Within the structure are the remains of terraces and stairs and galleries. It is said to have been built by the Northern Uí Néill part of the Uí Néill dynasty. The origins of a fort on the site are said to go back to 1700 BC. It was thought to be the seat of the Kingdom of Ailech who were the over-kings of the medieval Irish province of Ailech in north-western Ireland. It was a royal site of great significance in Gaelic Ireland. It is in a very strategically important location with comanding views in all directions.

In Irish mythology and folklore, the ringfort is said to have been originally built by the Dagda, a god and the celebrated king of the Tuatha Dé Danann. They were Celtic pre-Christian gods with supernatural ability and were of great importance to Gaelic people. The Tuatha Dé Danann form a significant feature in Irish, Scottish and Manx mythology. The site is located at the top of Greenan Mountain Inishowen (Irish: Inis Eoghain) in County Donegal (Irish: Contae Dhún na nGall). It is south of the N13 road near Speenoge, west of the County Derry/Contae Dhoire border and the City of Derry/Diore.

Link: Discover Ireland Grianán of Aileach

Image: Grainan of Aileach (author, Jon Sullivan (PD Photo.org).