Craggaunowen

Welcome to Krag-on-owen, a remarkable 'living history' museum set in the heart of the beautiful County Clare countryside. As you step onto these grounds, you are embarking on a journey across thousands of years of Irish history. …

We begin our exploration at the imposing Craggaunowen Castle, built around 1550 by John Mac-na-mar-ah. This tower house is a classic example of the defensive residences of the Irish gentry during the late medieval period. …

Descending from the castle toward the lake, we reach the reconstructed Crannog. This ancient lake dwelling is one of Krag-on-owen's most famous features. …

Further into the park, we encounter the Iron Age Ring Fort, an impressive circular structure protected by high earthen banks and a deep ditch. This would have been the home of a wealthy chieftain or a large extended family. …

One of the most remarkable exhibits at Krag-on-owen is the 'Brendan Boat.' This is a replica of a traditional Irish leather-covered boat, known as a currach. It was built in the 1970s by adventurer Tim Severin to prove that the…

As we walk through the wooded areas, you may notice a horseshoe-shaped mound of stones near a source of water. This is a Fulacht Fiadh (pronounced Full-ahk Fee-ah), a prehistoric cooking site dating back to the Bronze Age. …

Krag-on-owen is not just a collection of buildings; it is also home to several ancient breeds of animals that would have been familiar to our ancestors. As you wander through the park, you will encounter wild boar, goats, and…

As our journey through Krag-on-owen comes to a close, take a final moment to look back at the castle rising above the trees and the smoke drifting from the Crannog. This site is a powerful testament to the layers of history that…