BattlefieldsBattle of Callan
Medieval

Battle of Callan

1261
Kilkenny, Ireland
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Kilkenny, Ireland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Anglo-Normans (FitzGerald, Roche)
Forces
Anglo-Norman c.1,500–2,500; major 13th-century Irish battle.
VS
Victor
MacCarthy Mór (Fingen mac Carthach)
Forces
MacCarthy Mór c.2,000–3,000
Outcome
Decisive Irish victory; Norman expansion in Desmond halted
The Battle

History & Significance

One of the most important battles of 13th-century Ireland. MacCarthy Mór inflicted a crushing defeat on the Anglo-Norman lords of Desmond including John FitzThomas FitzGerald and Theobald Butler. The victory marked the beginning of the Gaelic resurgence in Munster and the rollback of Norman colonisation in Cork and Kerry.

Casualties & Losses

Many Anglo-Norman lords killed including John FitzThomas FitzGerald

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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