Dún Samhnaí

Dún Samhnaí (Fort of Samhain) derives its name from the Irish dún (fort) and Samhnaí (associated with Samhain, the Celtic festival marking the end of harvest and beginning of winter on November 1). The location became strategically significant following the Norman invasion of Ireland. Hugh de Lacy, a powerful Anglo-Norman lord granted lands by King Henry II, established Dunsany Castle around 11...