Rundiamhair Shiorai Manor
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75 CE
77 CE
Foundation Laid
Construction beginning/end- The project begins under the directive of Liadán Ni Dhomhnaill.
- Workers clear the land and prepare the foundation, choosing a strategic hill overlooking the surrounding lands for defensive and symbolic purposes.
- The first stones of the outer walls are laid, marking the ceremonial start of construction.
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77 CE
79 CE
Outer Walls and Defensive Structures
Construction beginning/end- The stone outer walls take shape, with construction focused on ensuring they are thick (10 feet) and sturdy to withstand sieges.
- Guard towers are added at critical points for surveillance and protection.
- A temporary wooden palisade and gate are erected to protect the site during construction.
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79 CE
81 CE
Central Keep Construction Begins
Construction beginning/end- Work begins on the central keep, designed to serve as both the family residence and the administrative heart of the region.
- The first floor is completed by the end of the year, including storage areas and a secure vault for valuable records and treasures.
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81 CE
83 CE
Religious Elements and Spriitual Additions
Construction beginning/end- A shrine to Cernnunos is constructed within the castle walls, acknowledging the spiritual traditions of the people and the ruling family.
- Workers create a secret passage leading from the shrine to the nearby woods, allowing for discreet ceremonial practices.
- Stoneworkers and craftsmen focus on carving intricate symbols into the shrine to honor the gods.
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83 CE
85 CE
The Great Hall
Construction beginning/end- The great hall is completed, featuring high ceilings supported by wooden beams and a stone floor.
- It serves as a space for feasts, meetings, and ceremonies, showcasing the family's wealth and influence.
= Work begins on large, arched windows to bring light into the otherwise dark interiors. -
85 CE
87 CE
Courtyard and Auxilliary Structures
Construction beginning/end- The inner courtyard is completed, serving as a private area for the family and their closest retainers.
- Additional structures, such as storage sheds and stables, are built within the outer walls.
- Decorative elements, including stone carvings and banners, begin to appear around the castle.
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87 CE
90 CE
Roof and Finishing touches
Construction beginning/end- The roof of the central keep is finished, using locally sourced shingles.
- The castle gates, made of reinforced wood and iron, are installed, securing the stronghold.
- Final detailing on the interior of the keep, including furnishings and tapestries, begins.
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90 CE
92 CE
Defensive upgrades
- Additional fortifications are added to the guard towers, including arrow slits and improved battlements.
- Workers dig a moat around the castle and create a drawbridge to further protect the entrance.
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92 CE
Completion and Dedication
Construction beginning/end- The castle is officially completed and dedicated in a grand ceremony.
- The ruling family hosts a multi-day feast in the great hall to celebrate the achievement, inviting allies and neighboring leaders.
- Castle Darragh becomes the heart of the region, symbolizing power, faith, and protection.
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630 CE
640 CE
Additional Wings and Annexes
Construction beginning/endAs the family’s influence grew and the generations of rulers multiplied, it became necessary to expand the Manor to accommodate an increasing number of inhabitants.
- Purpose: These additional wings were constructed primarily to house the growing family, including younger generations and extended relatives. The wings also allowed for an expansion of administrative space for the family’s increasing involvement in town governance. This enabled the Manor to function as both a residence and administrative center, ensuring that the family maintained direct control over both domestic and civic affairs.
- Date of Completion: The first annex was added around 630 AD, followed by two more in the subsequent decade, between 630-640 AD.
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631 CE
Defensive Enhancements
During a period of heightened political tension and external threats, the Manor underwent significant fortifications to solidify its defenses.
- Purpose: Stronger walls and a reinforced gate were added to ensure the protection of the family and the town. The moat was constructed around the Manor to create an additional layer of defense, preventing attackers from easily breaching the grounds. The watchtowers were enhanced and expanded to give defenders a better vantage point, with a larger presence of guards.
- Date of Completion: The defensive upgrades were completed around 650 AD, during a period of local unrest and the threat of invasions.