The Ancient Capital of Ulster

From the thirteenth century until modern times, this highland rampart above the town of Dungannon has been one of the most strategically important sites in the history of Ireland. Stronghold of the famous O’Neill dynasty its view of all nine counties of Ulster enabled its occupants to command the surrounding area. The inauguration site of the O’Neills is a short distance away to the North East at Tullahogue Fort.

In modern times the Hill, known locally as ‘Castle Hill’ was a base for the Territorial Army and during the Troubles, the British Army. In 2006 the site was handed back to Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, who, respecting the enormous historical, cultural and political significance of the site, have restored it as a people’s park with an adjoining exhibition that puts the Hill’s history into the context of important historical episodes, latterly the Flight of the Earls and the Plantation of Ulster.