Enclosure

The National Monuments Service's description

In pasture, located on a low, level elevation in gently undulating terrain. Immediately to N the ground falls away, giving excellent views to NE across Ballysadare Bay, prominently framed by Ben Bulben and Knocknarae. Ground rises very gradually to S. This circular enclosure (diam. c. 64m) is defined by a levelled scarp, probably originally a bank, which has been modified or truncated by linear field boundaries at SW and NW. The eastern arc of the enclosure can be traced at N−SSW as low, grass-covered undulation/scarp (ext. H 0.3-0.55m). Two large boulders (max. dim. c. 2m)lie on the line of the undulation at NE. The western arc of the enclosure has been modified: At SSW−W it is defined by a linear, sod-covered bank (Wth 1.6-2m), with a pronounced inward-facing scarp (H 0.6-0.8m) incorporating large stones and boulders. This bank may be a remnant of the original enclosing bank, but its linear nature suggests modification in the modern era to serve as a field boundary. At NW the enclosing bank is truncated by a NE−SW drystone field wall which coincides with the townland boundary between Fallathurteen and Carrrowreagh. This field wall is linear in form, except for a short section at NNW which respects the curve of the enclosure. The enclosing scarp/undulation is lowest at E, possibly the site of the original entrance. There is a gentle drop in ground level in the SE quadrant bordered by a low broadly sloping scarp. A drystone field wall, on a WNW−ESE axis, bisects the interior to NE of centre. Relict cultivation ridges are visible in the interior and in the surrounding fields. There is a wedge tomb (SL013-028----) 335m to NE, a castle (SL013-029002-) and bawn (SL013-029003-) incorporated into a rath (SL013-029001-) 300m to ENE, and another enclosure (SL013-030----) 275m to E.

Compiled by: Jane O’Shaughnessy

Date of upload: 9 December 2016