This odd and unique looking building is the Old Fort at Shannonbridge in co.Offaly. It was built in 1810 at this strategic location on the Shannon River. At the turn of the nineteenth century there was constant fear in England and Ireland of a possible invasion by General Napoleon Bonaparte. As well as the 50  Martello Towers that were built along the coast many buildings were also built along the Shannon River. This was to provide protection against a possible invasion from the west coast and further inland. Other fortifications along the Shannon were also built between Portumna and Athlone. The Fort has had many uses over the last 200 years from being used by the military, a residential family home and  more recently as a wonderful restaurant. The bridge is one of the oldest on the Shannon and dates from 1757.