XPW042386 IRELAND (1933). General View, Duncannon, Wexford, Ireland, 1933. Oblique aerial photograph taken facing North.

Following the Cromwellian occupation in the mid-17th century, the fort at Duncannon was extended to include a lighthouse in 1791 and a pier on the north side of the small harbour. The defences on the eastern side were reinforced with the construction of several Martello towers in the early part of the 19th century (c.1812).



The complex at Duncannon Fort is now in the care of a trust which operates it as a tourist attraction and local amenity. The buildings contain an art centre, museum and cafe. In 1999, it was used as a setting for a scene from the film "The Count of Monte Cristo".

Duncannon Fort was a major hub of military activity during the Confederate War of 1641-1650 and it was forced to surrender to Cromwell's army/navy on 17 August 1650. Oliver Cromwell paid a brief visit to Duncannon just prior to the surrender.