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Lough Neagh 호숫가 Brockagh 마을 근처에는 인상적인 Mountjoy Castle의 폐허가 있습니다. 이 성은 1602년에서 1605년 사이에 Mountjoy 경이 건설했으며, 9년 전쟁의 격동기에 중요한 군사 거점 역할을 했습니다. 독특한 점은 건축 자재의 특별한 조합입니다. 아래층은 거친 자연석으로 쌓았고, 위층은 현지에서 구운 붉은 벽돌로 이루어져 있습니다. 성은 1648년부터 폐허 상태였지만, 중앙 부분과 특징적인 화살촉 모양의 모퉁이 탑은 여전히 풍경 속에서 명확하게 알아볼 수 있습니다.

County Tyrone의 구불구불한 풍경을 자전거로 달리다 보면 Wellbrook Beetling Mill은 꼭 들러야 할 곳입니다. Ballinderry 강을 따라 그림 같고 나무가 우거진 계곡에 자리한 이 19세기 수력 방적 공장은 주변의 평온함과 극명한 대조를 이룹니다. 이곳은 영국에서 마지막으로 운영되는 'beetling mill'입니다. "Beetling"은 전통적인 아일랜드 리넨 생산의 마지막 단계였습니다. 거의 5미터 높이의 수차로 구동되는 거대한 나무 망치(beetles)를 사용하여 리넨을 몇 시간 동안 가공하여 특유의 광택을 얻었습니다. 공장이 작동할 때는 멀리서도 리듬감 있는 쿵쾅거리는 소리를 들을 수 있습니다. 이는 북아일랜드의 산업 황금기로 즉시 되돌아가는 듯한 인상적인 소리입니다.

In the shadow of Northern Ireland's vast skies, the mysterious Mountjoy Castle rises on a hill above Lough Neagh. This ruined castle, whose Irish name "Caisleán Mhuinseo" whispers into the wind, stands like a proud sentinel in the village of Mountjoy, County Tyrone. The castle was built in 1602 by order of Charles Blount, 1st Earl of Devonshire and 8th Baron Mountjoy. But times have not always been kind to this building: as early as 1643, a devastating fire left scars on the walls of the castle. What remained is a two-story brick building with the ground floor clad in stone. The architecture speaks of a time of defense and vigilance - a central rectangular block protected by four spear-shaped towers, crisscrossed by embrasures. The north-western tower testifies to the fragility of time - partially collapsed, while the western curtain wall has lost its presence. The entrance, once on the south side of the eastern curtain wall, seems to whisper stories of days gone by, while wide windows on the upper floor capture the eyes of visitors. Unfortunately, an extension at the back keeps some of the castle's secrets hidden, and the interior area is closed to visitors' eyes. But even in its ruined state, Mountjoy Castle embodies the soul and history of Northern Ireland. Not only is it a State Care Historic Monument in the townland of Magheralamfield in the Mid Ulster District, but it is also a silent testament to time, inviting every walker to pause for a moment and listen to the whispers of history.

Take in the fabulous views of Lough Neagh from this stretch of road.

Take in the beautiful views of Lough Shore whilst cycling along this stretch of road.

The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.

Also known as Black Lough, it's unique habitat means it is a great place for bird watching with a number of rare species being seen. You're also likely to spot people course fishing for pike and perch. There are even eels in the water.

The O'Neills ruled the region for over 400 years and this was their seat of power for over 300. You can enjoy a guided tour and learn more about the history of Ulster and marvel at the views from the top, from where you can see all the way to the Sperrin Mountains, the Mournes and Lough Neagh. A fine view for the O'Neills over their land.