clonalis house

Clonalis is the ancestral home of the O'Conors, kings of Connaught and providers of the last high kings of Ireland. The O'Conor inauguration stone, similar to the Stone of Scone which lies in Westminster Abbey, can be seen at Clonalis. The house (1880) stands on lands which have belonged to the O'Conors for 1,500 years. Owen O'Conor was dispossessed for short periods in the 17th century, but the remarkable tenure survived despite wars and penal laws.

A fascinating historic archive of over 100,000 documents is maintained at Clonalis, including a copy of the last Brehon Law judgement, handed down about 1580. Turlough O'Carolan (1670 - 1738), the blind Irish bard, composed three planxtys in honour of his O'Conor patrons and his harp is on display in the house. Other exhibits include costumes, uniforms and laces belonging to the family. The house is well furnished with Sheraton and Louis Quinze style furniture. Family portraits spanning many centuries decorate the walls.

Clonalis house is situated on the N60, Roscommon-Castlebar road, just west of Castlerea.