During the period 1170-1220 the Anglo-Normans began the Colonisation of Ireland, building Motte and Bailey Castles throughout Ireland. The wooden castle that stood on the top of the motte at …
West of the monastery, 'Clonmacnoise' on Shannon are the ruins of a castle, built in 1214. At the heart of a huge stone hall with courtyard. It was destroyed in 1300.