Town of Ballaghmore
The Ballaghmore Castle (1480), the chief seat of the Mac Gillpatricks (Fitzpatricks) Lords of Upper Ossory is strategically placed on the Bealach Mor, the great road to Munster. It was partially restored it in the 1830s. After Ely was murdered by a tenant and the castle was neglected for a long time, it was bought by the present owners in 1990 and renovated. Ballaghmore Castle has many interesting features including a rare monstrous sheila-an-gig on the wall facing front south, and outstanding views from the battlements of the past. Visitors get good guidance during their tour, and are warmly welcome. There is a very small, open to the public throughout the year, and is said to be a converted school house. With very small galleries inside and a sexton’s house at the back, this church is kept beautifully. North of the Ballaghmore Castle on Kyle Hill is stands the legendary Brehon’s Chair.
