The mythical Fionn MacCumhaill and the Fianna have had numerous connections to the Hill of Allen. It was rumoured to be the location of their camp, with the surrounding region serving as a training field.
Sir Gerald Aylmer of Donadea Castle began construction on a tower on the hill’s peak in 1859. The circular tower had an interior stairway that led to a glass-domed platform at the top. The tower had Latin inscriptions, and the names of individuals who assisted in the construction of the tower were etched on the staircase’s steps. Giant human bones were discovered when the tower was being erected, and they were claimed to be those of Fionn MacCumhaill. Sir Gerald ordered that they be reburied in a cave behind a rock.
