Clarecastle
Clarecastle ("An Clár" or ) is a village just south of Ennis in County Clare, Ireland. From 2008 to 2016 the village saw a significant population increase due to its proximity to Ennis, Shannon, and Limerick. Name. The town is named after the Clare Castle, which stands on an island in the narrowest navigable part of the River Fergus. The Irish "Clár", meaning a wooden board, is often used for a bridge. The name probably originated as "Clár adar da choradh", which means "the bridge between two weirs". Another explanation of the name is that the de Clare family gave  the castle its name, since they had acquired land in Kilkenny and Thomond that included the castle. In 1590 County Clare was named after the castle, which is in a strategic location. Clarecastle (Clare Abbey) is a parish in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Killaloe. It is also known as Ballyea/Clarecastle. Clare Abbey and Killone Abbey are linked by a footpath, the Pilgrim's Road. History. Clarecastle was once a port for boats, used to deliver items into the town of Ennis that could not navigate the river Fergus. The Quay of Clarecastle was a busy port during its  time. Today it is used for fishing and recreation. Sports. The local GAA team is Clarecastle GAA. The club's colours are black and white and they are known as the Magpies. Notable people. The composer Gerald Barry was born in Clarecastle in 1952.