County Cavan – the Breffni County of the O'Reillys
County Cavan grew out of the Gaelic kingdom of East Bréifne, ruled from around the 13th century by the O'Reilly family, which is why it is still known as the Breffni County. Its drumlin hills, loughs and heavy clay soils made a natural defence that long protected the area from invaders.
From the late 12th century Norman influence reached East Breifne, and the remains of motte-and-bailey earthworks can still be seen, along with stronger castles such as Castlerahan and Clogh Oughter. Monastic orders also shaped the region's medieval life. Today Cavan is a county of lakes and small towns with over 80,000 residents, popular with anglers and walkers. Do you know a Cavan story or local legend? Share it with the community!