Aughagower

Aughagower (or Aghagower) (Ir. Gaelic Achadh Fomhair) is a tiny but very ancient village in rural County Mayo in Western Ireland, about 5km from Westport. Aughagower today only has a few houses and pubs, but is ancient importance is obvious on walking around the village.

Aughagower is said to have been visited by St. Patrick, on his journey to Croagh Patrick. Aughagower lies mid-way along Tóchar Phádraig, formerly a part of the royal processional route from Croaghan, ancient capital of Connaught,and later an important pilgrimage route from Ballintubber Abbey to Croagh Patrick.

Round Tower

In the graveyard adjoining the modern church is a ruined medieval church, and a a striking tenth century round tower, which is intact other than its topmost section and capstone. The tower was built between 973 and 1013 and, according to legend, the capstone was struck by lightning, and landed on the hill of Tavenish, half a mile away. A local woman is said to have carried the heavy cap stone to the church where it is still to be seen today!