Souterrain

The National Monuments Service's description

In NE quadrant of ringfort (CO027-03001-; Lisleagh II). Excavation (Monk 1995, 111-2) revealed W end of souterrain chamber (min 1.2m N-S (W end); min 2.9m E-W; max D 1.85m; long axis E-W). North and S walls stone-built and slightly corbelled; W wall earth-cut; extends beyond limit of excavation to E. Chamber, entered via earth-cut steps at W end, widens towards E (projected Wth at E end 1.6m); beyond deepest point, floor begins to slope upwards close to E limits of excavation. Roofing slabs not found; excavator suggested 'layer of burnt material towards the base of the chamber could represent the burnt structural remains of [timber] roof' (ibid.). Chamber completely backfilled after abandonment during occupation of ringfort; fills comprised heavily charred material and burnt stone. Attempt made to recut souterrain after it had been backfilled. Souterrain cuts through trench of earlier circular house.

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009