Clough Oughter Castle

Con Manning joins us to discuss the archaeology of an island fortress

Clogh Oughter Castle

Con Manning joins us to discuss the archaeology of an island fortress

In this episode, one of Ireland’s most experienced archaeologists, Con Manning, discusses the excavations at Clogh Oughter Castle. An island fortress in County Cavan.

Clogh Oughter Castle consists of a strong, circular stone tower strategically (and beautifully) positioned on a small island in the middle of Lough Oughter in County Cavan. The castle was originally constructed in the early 13th century, possibly on the site of an earlier crannóg. Throughout its turbulent history Clogh Oughter Castle has served different roles, from the guardian of the South Ulster lakelands, to a prison. In this episode of Amplify Archaeology Podcast we chat to Con Manning who carried out excavations at the castle in the 1980s. Con is one of Ireland’s most experienced archaeologists. In his 40+ years with the National Monuments Service, he has been involved in excavations and publications on some of Ireland’s most important archaeological monuments. Con discusses a little of his background, before we turn to the history of Clogh Oughter Castle, ending with the brutal siege of the 17th century. We’ll discuss the dig, why it took place and hear about some of the key findings and how they tell a story of life and death at the castle over the centuries.

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