The Granard Moat
Ancient Moat of Granard
This is a photograph of the ancient Moat of Granard.
Ancient Moat of Granard
Ancient Moat of Granard
This is a photograph of the ancient Moat of Granard.
The moat in Granard, which stands 594 feet above sea level, was constructed by the Normans during the 13th century. It is well known as being one of the largest and oldest of its kind in Ireland.
From the moat, five lakes, parts of nine counties and a faint outline of the Sliabh Bloom Mountains can be seen. The approach to it is steep and it is surrounded by a trench.
It appears that it was originally cut out of a large hill.
It is thought that the surface is wide enough to support a large body of troops and this moat was a form of defence. Ascending into the moat has to be made in a zig-zag direction due to its steepness.
Bakers Fort
Baker's Fort (or 'rath') is located off the main street in Granard. The fort is now only 45 yards wide, as part of it was demolished in 1924.
Baker's Fort. Image courtesy of 'Granard, Its History, Our Heritage'.
Image courtesy of Granard, Its History, Our Heritage.
Image courtesy of Granard, Its History, Our Heritage.
The farmer who owns the land discontinued work on the land as he considered it an unlucky omen when his cattle died. The fort is said to be named after Mr. Baker, who had a shop in the village.