HACKETT CASTLE

Hackett Castle, also known as Castlehackett, is a 13th century tower house that stands at the foot of Knockma Hill in Belclare in County Galway. It was built by the Hackett family, who were Anglo-Norman settlers in Ireland. 

The castle was later occupied by the Kirwan family, who were one of the Tribes of Galway. The Kirwans abandoned Hackett Castle in the 18th century and built a three-story manor house nearby, called Castlehacket House. The manor house was burned down during the Civil War in 1923, but was rebuilt and is still standing today.

Hackett Castle is a fascinating example of medieval architecture and history in Galway. It has a rectangular plan with four corner towers and a vaulted basement. The castle was also associated with local legends and folklore, such as the fairy king Finvarra, who was said to live under Knockma Hill.

Hackett Castle is not open to the public, but can be seen from the road leading up to the wonderful forest trail of Knockma Hill.