Maire Rua and her Castles in Clare
Maire Rua is a legendary figure in Co. Clare, particularly associated with Leamanagh Castle, a National Monument on the border between Kilnaboy and Kilfenora. In this area Maire Rua has achieved a degree of notoriety, with many myths being told of her cruelty and cunning.
In reality Maire Rua was a powerful woman in 17th century Ireland, a time of great social upheaval. She was a member of the Gaelic Irish aristocracy, born to the McMahon clan and marrying into the Neylon family at Dysart O'Dea. Her second husband, Conor O'Brien of Leamanagh, died fighting against Cromwellian forces, and shortly thereafter she married a Cromwellian officer, in an expedient attempt to save her estate at Leamangh for her son. She had also managed the estate of her first husband until her eldest son from her first marriage came of age, proving her abilities and prowess at a time when society was dominated by men.
Risteard (Dick) UaCroinin, who restored Dysert O'Dea Castle in 1985-6, served as Clare County Archaeologist and Architectural Conservation Officer from 2000 until his retirement in 2019. He now works as an architectural heritage consultant. He will tell the story of Maire Rua and her connection to five different castles in Co. Clare in this fascinating presentation during Heritage Week.
Entry fee is €5, with concessions of €3
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Heritage Council Grant
This event is part of a project supported under the Heritage Council's grants programme in 2024