A chance to walk in the footsteps of Spanish Armada shipwreck survivors

Spanish Armada in Donegal is a Heritage Week event that will commemorate the cultural and historic links between Ireland and Spain, centred around the events of 1588. 

Organised by GAP History and Heritage Group, the reenactment walk traces the route of the survivors of La Duquesa Santa Ana from Rosbeg to Killybegs, and the hoped for escape on La Girona anchored in Killybegs.

Events take place on August 18 from 9.30am to 6pm, with registration at the Ardara Parish Centre,

Drumbarron, Ardara F94 VX98.

A spokesperson for GAP History and Heritage Group said: “By telling the stories of La Duquesa Santa Ana and La Girona we are keeping the connections between Spain and Ireland very much alive. 

“Two Footprint memorial stones perhaps tell us all: one at Rosbeg Pier citing ‘the first steps on Donegal soil of the survivors of La Duquesa Santa Ana’ and the second at St Catherine’s Well, Killybegs citing ‘the last steps on Irish soil of the survivors of La Duquesa Santa Ana and La Girona’.”

La Girona sank off Lacada Point, County Antrim on October 28, 1588 with the loss of 1,300 men, making it one of the costliest losses of life for a shipwreck in the history of seafaring.

The spokesperson continued: “We will explore the social, human, military and maritime history of the late 16th century and the fate of two of at least 26 Spanish Armada ships wrecked off the Atlantic coast of Ireland between September and October 1588. 

“500 years ago there were no roads, no bridges and virtually no towns in this part of Donegal making the landscape and environment very different from today. 

“The 16th century style military encampment by Oireas Historic Services, with live demonstrations and hands-on experiences will create an atmosphere worth witnessing.”

This year’s event builds on the group’s two previous Spanish Armada commemorative walks, 2018 and 2019, which were scheduled to be annual events until the pandemic stopped everything in its tracks. 

“We will explore the story of the history and heritage of the Spanish Armada, Hiberno-Spanish connections, and the rich maritime and natural history of this part of the coast of south-west Donegal,” said the spokesperson.

“This story is one of connections, routes and networks, from the route of the Armada from Spain to England and its unintended appearance off the Irish coast and the tragedies that befell at least 26 ships.”

After the battle of Gravelines on August 8, the Spanish fleet were given instructions to sail home by heading up the east coast of England, around the north of Scotland and Ireland and to stand well out into the Atlantic and to ‘Take heed lest you fall upon the Island of Ireland for fear of the harm that may happen to you upon that coast.

The network of communications established with Gaelic clans saved the lives of the crew of La Duquesa Santa Ana. The communications between the English forces in Ireland lead to the capture, slaughter and massacre of others.

Those wishing to participate in the reenactment walk are advised that the route will be along track and minor roads. 

A series of Spanish Armada display panels will provide an extra dimension to the day. This is an intergenerational event. Parts of the route are family friendly, especially Sheskinmore. 

The historic encampment crew will show children and adults what life was like over 400 years ago.

Further information is available by contacting Donegal GAP Heritage and History Group on 087 9214206 or by emailing ardaraheritagehistory@gmail.com