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Athlone History
Athlone is a beautiful small town located right at the heart of Ireland. The name Athlone came from 'Ath' which means the crossing or ford and 'Luain', which is derived as the ford of Luain.
Athlone’s ford was strategically very important, because the Shannon (southern Athlone) is not passable until Shanon meets Esker Riada which is known as Clonmacnoise.
During the 12th century, a bridge was developed crossways down the river. Towards the last part of 12th century, Anglo-Normans built a fortification named motte-and-bailey here. However, it was outmoded by a structure made of stone built by John Gray in 1210. The donjon date that has 12 sides also was built during this period.
During the 16th century Irish Confederate War, the small town was detained by the troops of the Irish Confederate till it was overtaken by Charles Coote in 1650.
During Athlone’s 1st battle in the year of 1690, Colonel Richard Grace’s Jacobite forces resisted an attack of 10,000 troops of Commander Douglas. In the subsequent year Athlone saw further assault when it was seized by the men of King William III and ultimately prevailed.
Athlone was proposed as Ireland’s capital city in the Éire Nua programme.
Travel guide to Athlone
Athlone History
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