Thoor Ballylee

Gort Kilmacduagh And Kiltartan (Galway)

Thoor Ballylee, or Yeats' Tower as it is sometimes know, is situated on the banks of the Streamstown river just outside of Gort, County Galway. 

The tower dates to the 14th century and is in remarkable good condition. This is due in no small part to the dedication of the local volunteers who have given their time, expertise, and attention to the restoration and preservation of this important tower house. 

Although the tower is significant in its own right as an excellent example of a 14th century Hiberno-Norman Tower House, it is its association with the great poet W.B Yeats that has earned Thoor Ballylee such a special place in the hearts of the local community. It was while living here that Yeats wrote some of his greatest work, and he even used the tower as his own person sigil.

Thoor Ballylee was severely affected by flood damage in the winter of 2009/2010, and it is only thanks to the efforts of the local community to raise funds for essential repairs that the tower was able to re-open. 

Today Thoor Ballylee is open each summer for tours and is still managed and operated by the same passionate local community who refused to allow this important landmark go to ruin. It is also a stop on the Lady Gregory Heritage Trail which takes in several exciting locations in the wider Gort area. 

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