MacGrath's Castle, south side and Friar's Walk

The castle was built by Donal McGrath in co-operation with the O'Briens of Comeragh in the 12th century. These are the same families who donated land nearby to the Augustinians for the building of the Abbey McGrath Castle, as it was called, is now completely demolished, but some photographs remain as illustrations of the structure in its varying stages of decay. The castle was built as a family residence and not as a structure for defence. The building was a lofty square one and judging from its great height it must have been intended to be a landmark in the locality. Certainly the people who lived in this prominent structure regarded themselves as being people of great importance. At the time the castle and abbey were built it is known that the surrounding area was heavily wooded. In 1746 the castle was in perfect condition and this fact is recorded by Charles Smith in his book "The Ancient and the Present State od the County and City of Waterford." Return to main Castles page

MacGrath's Castle, west and south walls