The Martello towers are small, defensive forts built during the 19th century. They stand up to 40 feet high and have thick walls of solid masonry, making them resilient in times of battle. They typically had a garrison of one officer and 15-25 men over two floors.
There are Martello towers all around the UK but Ireland is home to some of the most famous. The Martello tower in Sandycove, near Dun Laoghaire, is a particular point of interest for visitors, because James Joyce lived there for several days and set part of his well-known novel Ulysses within the impressive structure.
The tower is now known as the James Joyce Tower and now houses a museum dedicated to Ireland’s most prolific modernist writer.
The most unique Martello tower in Ireland is South no. 7, on Tara Hill in Killiney Bay. The tower is now privately owned and has been fully restored. It contains a proofed, working King George III 18-pound cannon, as well as a three-gun battery below the tower. This makes it a fantastic day-trip destination for all ages, offering an opportunity to experience what life was like for the soldiers living and fighting from within the tower’s narrow confines.
Why not take a tour of the Irish coast by visiting the many Martello towers that command it? Take note of each one’s unique character and enjoy the beautiful countryside that surround them.
