Major study reveals Enniscrone's hidden history

A project dedicated to ensuring the long-term conservation and management of heritage sites in Enniscrone Castle Field, home to at least five recorded archaeological monuments spanning various historic and prehistoric periods, has been completed.

Local archaeologist and project coordinator Angela Wallace stressed the significance of community engagement and awareness in preserving Enniscrone Castle Field for future generations.

"Engagement with the local community, the O’Dowda diaspora and a wider national audience is a major focus. We hope this is the beginning of a wider plan to implement conservation works to preserve this amenity for future generations and to make the structure more accessible to all to enjoy", she said.

Among the works carried out included Aerial LiDAR surveys which unveiled previously unseen aspects of the Castle Field.

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology, utilises laser pulses to create intricate 3-D maps, penetrated through vegetation and trees, offering an unprecedented view of the site's geography and history.

The survey detailed ringforts, Valentine's Church, possible megaliths and the potential presence of an outer defensive bawn or fortified enclosure surrounding the castle.

Oblique aerial photographic data was also captured by Impact GIS as part of 7L Architects’ conservation plan for the castle.

This data was processed using specialist software to create a detailed model of the fabric of the castle itself.

Philip Armstrong of Paint the Past; Archaeological and Historical Reconstruction and Painting provided a visual reconstruction of Enniscrone Castle.

His reconstruction will be unveiled at an event taking place on November 23 at the West Sligo Family Resource Centre, Enniscrone at 7pm and offers a reliable and realistic depiction of the castle's appearance in its prime.