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...
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Grianan Aileach Ring Fort, Letterkenny
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Grianan Aileach Ring Fort
Burt, Letterkenny, Ireland
353-77-68512
14 visitor photos
Ranked #2 of 9 attractions in Letterkenny
29 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......
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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.
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Derry, United Kingdom
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Reviewed 30 November 2011
Wokingham, United Kingdom
Contributor
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
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don't pass it,beautiful fort,amazing scenery and don't forget the camera.
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Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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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,...
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Nottingham, United Kingdom
Senior Contributor
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
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
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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
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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
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Wonderful structure with great views over Lough Swilly and Inishowen
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Donegal Town, Ireland
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Wear sneakers or flat shoes, and enjoy the veiw - on a bright sunny day great for picnic and relaxing break to take in the amazing view
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