Battle of Callann

The Battle of Callann was fought in August 1261 between the Hiberno-Normans, under John FitzGerald, and three Gaelic clans: MacCarthy, who held the Kingdom of Desmond, under Fínghin Mac Carthaigh, King of Desmond, ancestor of the MacCarthy Reagh dynasty.

It took place in the townland of Callann or Collon near modern-day Kilgarvan,County Kerry. MacCarthaigh was victorious.

Causes of the Battle

In 1259, John FitzThomas FitzGerald, 1st Baron Desmond received a royal grant of Desmond and west Waterford in fee. Fineen MacCarthy, son of Donal Gott MacCarthy and King of Desmond gathered his troops.

July 1261

In July 1261 the MacCarthys decided to face the Normans at Callan and won a complete victory.

Both John FitzGerald and his son, Maurice, died in the fighting.