Ireland; Co. Galway; Connemara region: View from Sky Road along Clifden Bay on ruins of Clifden Castle (built 1818). Clifden; today a famous sea bath; was founded in the beginning of 19th century by John D'Arcy (1785-1839). who built and lived in Clifden Castle (built c. 1818; now ruin); west of Clifden. He got the estate in 1804; when only fishermen and farmers were living around. The idea of town building first came up; in 1812. In 1822; D'Arcy sent a petition to the government in Dublin for support. An engineer was sent to Clifden; in 1822; to build a quay for a harbour; whic lasted until 1831. As well; a road to city of Galway was built. In 1839; town builder John D'Arcy died. But Clifden now had 185 dwellings.Clifden Castle was built in Gothic-Revival style. It was uninhabited; after 1894. In 1935; it got new ownership; but fell soon in ruins. Today; one can admire the ruins along Sky Road. The 11 km long Sky Road along northern banks of Clifden Bay is one of th biggest attractions in sea bath Clifden. It is one of the highlights along Wild Atlantic Way. Clifden often is called the capital of Connemara.