History of Inishowen Peninsula

a High King of Ireland), whose name was also used for Tyrone (Irish: TírEoghain). InisEoghain is also the ancient homeland of the Mac Lochlainn clan (descended from the tribe of Eoghan), a clan that grew so formidable that they eventually came under siege by a Limerick King, who came north to Aileach, and ordered the destruction of Aileach fort, and that each soldier was to carry away a stone from the fort in order to prevent its rebuilding. Later, after the decline of the Mac Lochlainn clan, the chieftainship of InisEoghain was usurped by the Ó Dochartaigh clan, as they lost their own homeland in the Laggan valley area of TírConaill.

Inishowen has many historical monuments, dating back to early settlements, and including the ruins of several castles, and the fort at GrianánAileach. The ancient GrianánAiligh fort at Burt was the one time seat of the High Kings of Ireland, including both High Kings of the Mac Lochlainn Clan, who held power in InisEoghain for many centuries. It was restored in the nineteenth century, although some damage in recent years has resulted in the partial collapse of the south side wall. Among the main castle ruins of Inishowen are Carrickabraghey on the Isle of Doagh, the Norman Castle at Greencastle, Inch Castle, Buncrana Castle and Elagh Castle.

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