This tower was given to Granuaile in marriage by her 2nd husband, Richard an Iarainn.  When he died, she kept it. 

                   
There is a story that Granuaile & Richard married for "one year certain" under the archaic Brehon laws, enabling either to "dismiss" the other after a year. 

                   
There is a story that Granuaile dismissed Richard after that one year.  Except that she had his son after that and they were married for 17 years, both being present in various courts or other recorded events with each other.  See the production to find out how Molly Lyons writes the "dismissal" scene. 
Carraigahowley Castle itself.

Clare Island Sites ::

Clare Island Tower

As we took this shot, between matinee & evening performances, when the ferry full of kids who'd come over from the mainland to see the show went by the castle, they called out, "Goodbye Grania", "Farewell Granuaile" and I waved my sword at them from the edge of the bluff. 

Clare Island Abbey
          Clare Island Abbey with Granuaile's grave was a poignant stop for us while on the island.  The abbey is an important archeological site with gorgeous 13th century frescoes and 15-16th century O'Malley additions onto the building.  The most meaningful addition is this grave with the O'Malley crest, including their motto "Terra Marique Potens" inscribed upon it. 

Westport House ::  Lord Altamont (13th great-grandson of Granuaile) commissioned a new statue of Queen Granuaile, unveiled in June, 2003.  We had a lovely tour of the Westport House and grounds with Jeremy Altamont.
What we loved is that one hand is on the tiller of the ship while the other on her broadsword and that she is a combination of strength & femininity. 

Some viewers feel the statue's profile is the same as actress/playwright Molly Lyons'. 

Primary publicity image used by production, as of June, 2004.   

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