History

  The life of this 90 feet high five storey tower house begun around 1425, when it was built on solid rock, and ended around 1650, when it was destroyed [1, 2].
  Possibly erected by Finghin MacGillapatrick, it was the most important stronghold and residence of the MacGillapatricks of Upper Ossory [1, 3, 4]. Probably, it was attacked by the owners enemies “sovereign and citizens of Kilkenny” between 1441 and 1517, who were supported by King Henry VI [1, 3]. It was bombarded again by Cromwell’s forces around 1650 and abandoned after these events [1, 4].
  On the outer side of the East wall, behind the chimney, a rude carving, in relief, of the head, breast and arms of a female is present: This is a superb Síle na Giġ [1, 3].
  In close proximity to the castle, the ruins of the private chapel of the Catholic lords of Upper Ossory can be found [1].

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Tips

  Located in the village of Cullohill in County Laois, approximately one hundred metres out on the road, up the nearby hill that gives the area its name, Cullohill Castle is definitely worth to visit. The scenery is wonderful and offers the perfect symbiosis between a history lesson and a pleasant family picnic.
  We actually managed to climb inside the ruin as the best shots take some effort and we tried to imagine how the castle would have looked originally. Obviously we were captured by its beauty and we missed one very important detail: the Sheela na gig. We actually had to take a second trip to the castle to immortalise it. But where exactly is it? On the East wall, look for a figurative carving, it is an architectural grotesque found throughout most of Europe, on cathedrals, castles, and other buildings. We consider ourselves lucky as we manage to enter from the back of the castle, as it had its doors open due the Folly Festival. This is Ireland's first ever gender balanced music festival, an event about music, comedy and culture, held in July, right in front of the castle: we recommend to visit Cullohill during the festival, to also enjoy the local traditions. Let us know if you get there and if you spot the Sheela na gig.