Athenry Seal

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The original mace and seal of the town boast brass construction with wooden handles. Most historians date them to the 14th century. The seal would have played a key role in authenticating important documents and letters. Two decapitated heads on spikes above the town wall/gate are prominently displayed on the seal. Town walls/gates are often featured on other seals from Ireland, England, and the Continent, serving as symbols of civic pride and the rights and freedoms of the townspeople. The unique depiction of the two decapitated leaders, however, is a distinguishing feature of Athenry's seal. Tradition holds that the heads belong to Felim O'Connor and Tadgh O'Kelly, leaders of the Irish force that attacked the town in 1316.