History

The beautiful and bustling town of Killaloe is steeped in decades of history. The name Killaloe is derived from the church of St. Lua. St Lua established a monastic settlement in the sixth century. Originally, this monastery stood on an island approximately 1 kilometer downstream from Killaloe bridge. As a result of the Shannon Hydro Electric Scheme in the late 1920s, this island was completely submerged. In 1930, St. Lua’s oratory was removed and rebuilt beside St. Flannan’s Catholic church where it can still be admired today.

Brian Boru who is known as the last high king of Ireland was born in 941 near Killaloe. He is regarded as the most successful warlord of Irish history. Boru is credited with banishing the Vikings from Ireland after 200 years of torment. This is credited to his victory at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014, where he later died. Brian Boru is still widely celebrated in Killaloe. Killaloe Hotel and Spa has many links to Brian Boru. These include our hotel logo which was heavily inspired by his iconic sword. Our hotel also offers suites which are named after key members of his clan.

Killaloe’s fishing industry dates back centuries with evidence of numerous eel weirs as well as salmon fisheries. A spirited and timeless industry which still holds great promise for the town.

The town of Killaloe also has links to the strive for independence in Ireland. In 1920, there was a major attack on Scarriff R.I.C Barracks. This led to the auxiliaries searching the countryside for the suspects. They subsequently found three men hiding in Williamstown House, which is about a thirty-minute drive from the hotel. The three men that were found were Alfie Rogers and Brud McMahon from Scariff and Martin Gildea from Galway. Michael Egan from Whitegate was caretaker at Williamstown House and was also captured. John and Michael Conway were captured in transit. All six were then taken by boat to Killaloe. After questioning, the Conway brothers were released. However, sadly the remaining four were taken to the bridge at Killaloe around midnight and shot. A small concrete bunker can now be seen on the Killaloe side of the bridge. This acts as a harrowing reminder of this horrific event.

Although Killaloe is no longer the home to the High King of Ireland, there is no doubt that is still royalty amongst the water lovers of Ireland. Now known as the water capital of Lough Derg, it caters for fishing, cruising, boating, sailing, swimming, wind-sailing and water skiing. The rich heritage of Killaloe is still celebrated through local walks and guides. The legend of Brian Boru lives on through Killaloe’s annual festival as well as smaller tokens of appreciation.