donegal castle

Donegal Castle is located in Donegal town in County Donegal in the Northwest of Ireland. The Castle is situated in the centre of the town on a rock outcrop overlooking the River Eask. It was built by one of the O'Donnell chieftains in the 15th century.
Donegal Castle was the residence of the O'Donnell Family, who were originally loyal subjects of Queen Elizabeth I. This changed when the last of the family "Red" Hugh O'Donnell, with his friend, Hugh O'Neill rebelled and fought a bloody nine year war, which they lost and were finally forced to accept the English laws, language, religion and customs. In return "Red" Hugh was allowed to keep the castle and lands. But after a few years of English interference, he fled to Spain where he was poisoned. It is rumoured that before he left, he burned the castle to prevent the English using it. <