Ringfort - rath

The National Monuments Service's description

This levelled monument is indicated on the 1838 edition of the OS six-inch map as a raised circular platform (diam. c. 60m) defined by a scarp which is enclosed by an inner fosse and outer bank. The overall diameter of the site measures c. 120m E-W. On the OS 25-inch map the monument is depicted as a circular platform defined by a scarp which is enclosed by an inner fosse and tow outer banks with an intervening fosse. A gap is indicated on the E side of the central platform which may indicate an entrance feature. The levelled monument is only visible today as differential growth in the grass indicating the line of the fosse (Wth c. 5.5m), no other surface remains survive.
Reference to a rath (O'Hanlon and O'Leary 1907, vol. 1, 156). The files of the National Museum of Ireland records that in October 1953 human remains (LA024-029001-) were discovered during bulldozing of a ringfort (LA024-029) at Rathmoyle near Abbeyleix, Co. Laois. According the NMI file the 'ringfort covered an area of approximately 23/4 acres, and the banks varied in height from 2.4m (external bank) to 0.9m (internal bank)' (NMI File).

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Compiled by Caimin O'Brien
Date of upload/revision: 09 December 2010