Theatre of Power: The Anglo-Norman Park at Earlspark,Co Galway,Ireland

Abstract

THIS PAPER EXAMINES the archaeological and historical evidence for a 13th-century park at Earlspark, Loughrea, Co Galway. This is the first detailed study of an Irish Anglo-Norman-period park to be published, and the site, which lies c 2 km south-east of the town of Loughrea, is exceptionally well preserved. It is documented in 1333, along with its deer, and field survey in the area has identified the park, which is defined by a mortared stone wall extending for 7.4 km and standing up to 2.6 m in height.