| Greencastle
is a popular resort with a fine beach. It is an important
commercial fishing port. It was once a place of considerable
importance. Richard de Burgo, the Red Earl of Ulster,
selected the place as a site for a castle to dominate
the O'Donnells and the O'Dohertys of Inishowen. |
| |
Built
in 1305, the castle has a chequered history. Edward Bruce,
brother of the more famous Robert, came here in 1316 and
captured the castle. He had been offered the high-kingship
of Ireland but was eventually to be defeated. The Red
Earl retook it in 1318 but de Burgo power collapsed shortly
afterwards and it fell into O'Donnell hands, to be much
besieged. In 1555, Cealbhack O'Donnell took the field
against his father and damaged the castle badly. |
