Drumacoo
Drumacoo is a civil parish and townland located in County Galway, Ireland. It is situated near the town of Clarinbridge, south of Galway city. The area is historically and geographically significant, largely due to its association with the Augustinian priory of Drumacoo.
The Augustinian priory, known as Drumacoo Abbey, was founded in the 12th century. While the exact date of its founding is debated, it is clear that it was a significant religious site in the region for centuries. The ruins of the priory, including sections of the church and cloister, are still visible today and are considered a National Monument.
The landscape of Drumacoo is typical of the coastal areas of County Galway, featuring a mix of farmland and rocky terrain. The area has a rich history of agriculture and fishing.
Historically, Drumacoo was part of the territory controlled by various Gaelic clans. Following the Norman invasion, the area came under the influence of Anglo-Norman families, although Gaelic influence remained strong. The priory played a crucial role in the social and economic life of the parish.
The name "Drumacoo" is derived from the Irish language, likely referring to a ridge or high place ("drum") associated with a person or family named "Coo" or a similar-sounding name. Variations in spelling and pronunciation have been documented throughout history.