a town of Westmeath in Ireland, lying in W. Long. 8° 0' N. Lat. 53° 20'. It is situated on both sides of the Shannon, and both parts are united by a strong, high-raised, and well-built bridge, in the middle of which stands a monument, with some figures cut in marble, together with Queen Elizabeth's arms, and some inscriptions declaring the time and the founders of the building. The castle was founded by King John on some land belonging to St Peter's abbey, for which he granted a compensation. It is built on a high-raised round hill, resembling one of the Danish raths or forts. Here were formerly two convents or monasteries. Athlone was formerly strongly fortified, and considered as of very great importance. In the year 1691, a part of the English army under General Ginkel, in the very face of the Irish, who were strongly entrenched on the opposite shore, fording the river, formed, and took possession of the town, not losing more than 50 men in the attack; which is esteemed as bold and successful an enterprise as any recorded in history. There are generally two troops of horse and four companies of foot quartered at Athlone. This town gives the title of earl to the family of Ginkel, as a reward for the noble services performed by the General.