Ballintober and the Meath Fires
Archived: 22 October 2026
Abstract
In 1362, Ireland was divided among competing Gaelic and English authorities. Cathal Óg Ó Conchobair and King Aodh of Connacht captured Ballintober Castle, an important former de Burgh stronghold, then led a major raid into Meath, burning churches and causing extensive damage before returning safely. Meanwhile, Lionel of Antwerp held parliament in Dublin, oversaw administration, including the exchequer’s move to Carlow, and received the title duke of Clarence. Cathal Óg later died of plague at Sligo. Annals also recorded deaths among churchmen and learned families, revealing continuing religious, legal and scholarly institutions amid warfare, epidemic and unstable regional power relations.
