The Burkes (de Burgh) were one of the most important and influential families in Galway. . Descending from William de Burgh (brother of “...the most powerful man in England, next to King John.”), they could also trace their roots in a direct line to Charlemagne. During the 13th century, William’s son, Richard, built a castle along a strategic crossing point on the Corrib River, known as “Terryland” (locals called it the “Old Castle”). At the same time, another castle existed on the opposite side of the river (nothing remains of this other castle). From the 17th century onwards, the castle ( now under the ownership of the Earls of Clanricarde) renovations made it more of a fortified home than a castle, as it became involved in at least three conflicts; (1) in 1641, it was garrisoned during a rebellion; (2) it again housed troops during the Cromwellian Wars of 1652; (3) and in 1691, it was defended by joint Irish and French troops from a Williamite Army during a war between Ireland and supporters of Dutch Protestant Prince William of Orange (following a brief skirmish, the joint forces set fire to the castle and retreated to the walled city of Galway). A devastating fire in 1961 further destroyed the castle to its current ruined state.
Recent archeological excavations of the site discovered artifacts and human remains that may have emanated from the 17th century conflicts (an alternative explanation put forth the supposition that the remains were from private family burials. Visitors can visit the Terryland castle ruins as part of 36 mile route of old castles along the Corrib River and lake.
Recent archeological excavations of the site discovered artifacts and human remains that may have emanated from the 17th century conflicts (an alternative explanation put forth the supposition that the remains were from private family burials. Visitors can visit the Terryland castle ruins as part of 36 mile route of old castles along the Corrib River and lake.
The remains of the 900 year old Terryland Castle.
It is hard to determine from these ruins, just how large this castle was during its heyday.
For those adventurous souls who enjoy history, the castle route around the river and lake can be quite entertaining.
While constructing a new access ramp to Dyke road (next to the castle) 500 year old human remains and historical artifacts were uncovered (photo of Dr. Lynch explaining the archeological finds - courtesy of the Galway Advertiser). They are believed to have been buried there following the 17th century conflicts mentioned above (although some think they may have been part of a private Burke family burial grounds).
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