County Donegal – heartland of the O'Donnells of Tír Chonaill
For centuries, County Donegal was the home of the O'Donnells, one of the richest and most powerful native Irish ruling families. From the early 13th century until the start of the 17th century they ruled Tír Chonaill (Tyrconnell), a Gaelic kingdom in west Ulster that covered almost all of today's county, and within Ulster only the O'Neills of Tyrone were more powerful. Their leader bore the title The O'Donnell.
The dynasty descended from the once-mighty Clann Dálaigh, and its legacy lives on in local place names, castles and family histories. Today Donegal is Ireland's northernmost county, known for its rugged coastline, Irish-speaking areas and warm communities. Do you have a Donegal story or family tale? Share it with the community!