The Pirate Queen – Grace O’Malley

More about Grace O’Malley

Legend has it that in 1593, Grace was returning home after her meeting with Queen Elizabeth 1, where they had conversed in Latin – the only language they mutually shared. Grace had worn a fine gown for the meeting and had refused to curtesy for the Queen as she did not recognise Grace as Queen of Ireland. The Journey from London to Clew Bay in Mayo would have been a long one and Grace stopped in Howth to replenish supplies and perhaps seek hospitality in the castle, as is Irish custom. But the gates were locked and she was refused entry. Grace was outraged by the Lord of Howth not respecting the Irish custom of offering refuge for those who sought it. On her way back to her ship she came across the Lord’s Grandson and kidnapped him, bringing him back to Connaught with her. When asked what her ransom was for his safe return, she asked that the gates of Howth Castle never be closed to a stranger again and that an extra place be set at the dinner table each evening should an expected guest arrive. The boy was returned unharmed and to this day the gate of Howth Castle always remain open.