Sligo’s Castle Burden
Archived: 25 October 2026
In 1245, Maurice fitz Gerald, justiciar of Ireland, built Sligo Castle with Síl Muiredaig, compelling King Fedlimid Ó Conchobair of Connacht to meet much of the cost and appropriating ecclesiastical materials. The fortress strengthened lordship over strategic north-western routes. Other castles at Áth an Chip and Caisleán Suicín reflected intensified frontier militarisation. Fedlimid joined Henry III’s Welsh campaign, gaining royal recognition despite continuing Anglo-Irish pressure. Maurice was replaced by John fitz Geoffrey. Church disputes, killings, raids and successions revealed regional instability, while Elphin’s episcopal dispute reached Pope Innocent IV at Lyons. Severe snow before Christmas disrupted travel, livelihoods and supplies.