Grianan Fort

This stone Celtic fort, also known as Grianan Ailigh, is circular in shape and located atop an 810 foot high hill northeast of Letterkenny. The views from this site are breathtaking, and include the areas around Donegal Town and Kerry. The hills of peninsulas Fanad and Inishowen are visible, along with the River Swilly, Lough Swilly and surrounding landscapes.

The fort is encircled by a stone enclosure measuring 76 feet in diameter. Beyond its gates are additional fortifications made from earth and stone, with a strong structure at the center of the fort.

The age of Grianan Fort is difficult to determine, but most authorities place its origin in the Iron Age. Ptolemy of Alexandria referred to it in 2A.D., and it is known to have been connected to the O’Neill chieftains of Ulster from the fifth through the 12 centuries. It was viciously attacked in 674 and 1101.

Dr Walter Bernard, a historian from Derry, was instrumental in the restoration of the fortress during the 1870’s.