Stand on the Hill of the O’Neill and you are standing on one of the most important sites in the history of Ireland.
The iconic Dungannon site has been at the heart of Irish history for centuries and was the stronghold of the long-running O’Neill dynasty.
The origin of the O’Neill clan dates back to the 10th century, and their lineage includes two High Kings of Ireland.
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In 1595, Hugh O’Neill became the clan’s leader and was known as The O’Neill.
He was the Earl of Tyrone and the last inaugurated chief of the O’Neills.
Dungannon was at the eye of an international political storm from 1594 to 1603, during which time The O’Neill would lead mighty armies, would win and lose battles, and create problems for at least four monarchs.
The Hill of the O’Neill was the Earl’s stronghold, a real place of authority and power.
This highland site has long been one of the most strategically important sites in the land, allowing the O’Neills to view all nine counties of Ulster they controlled.
It was also at the centre of the Nine Years’ War from 1593 to 1603 – a rebellion led by Hugh O’Neill against the English monarchy.
The O’Neill was a military genius who repeatedly got the better of the Crown’s generals in Ulster.
However, after a bitter defeat at the Battle of Kinsale, he was driven to bid farewell to the Hill of the O’Neill and the lands he ruled over.
O’Neill’s departure for Spain, with the Earl of Tyrconnell and 90 followers, became known as the Flight of the Earls.
It was a pivotal event in Irish history, effectively marking the end of the Gaelic way of life.
With The O’Neill and his followers in exile, the way was clear for the colonisation of their lands by wealthy settlers, largely from Scotland and England under King James I.
This was known as the Plantation, a plan conceived to control and ‘civilise’ the wayward Irish.
Instrumental in managing the process and distributing the lands was the Lord Deputy of Ireland – Arthur Chichester, who had defeated Hugh O’Neill in the Nine Years War.
Chichester would go on to become a major figure in the founding of Belfast.
In recent times, the Hill – known as Castle Hill – was a base for the British Army during The Troubles, again due to its strategic location.
The Chair of Mid Ulster council, Councillor Paul McLean, said the site is so significant it is well worth a visit - especially now a new exhibition has opened telling its story.
He said: “The doors have only recently reopened to our magnificent Hill of The O’Neill and Ranfurly House, so it’s fantastic that we are able to once more safely welcome visitors to the site to learn more about the centuries of stories it’s built on, and all the fascinating history that surrounds it!
“The Hill of the O’Neill overlooking Dungannon square is truly one of our most important sites and whatever way you look, it will provide you with a breathtaking panoramic view over Ulster.
"I would encourage you to come and visit us at Ranfurly House and Hill of The O’Neill where you can experience the whole story of this truly remarkable site through our multi-media exhibition.”
You can book a tour to explore this special place at the heart of Ulster’s history by clicking here.
For more Co Tyrone news, visit our new site MyTyrone.
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