Promontory fort - coastal

The National Monuments Service's description

Identified from an aerial survey by Markus Casey who described this possible monument as one of two large rectangular headlands at right angles to one another on Ballyvoyle head, sloping down gently to the S. This easternmost promontory fort has a low earthen bank (Wth 4m) with a wide shallow fosse running straight across the neck, with traces of a second outer series of defences 11m inland. This part of the monument lies in a cleared field which shows signs of having been cultivated. The interior is featureless and sheer cliffs drop 100' to the sea on the S and W, a less steep slope on the E. A faint depression running across the neck of the adjacent headland (WA032-047----) suggests that this too was defended. The area consists of fertile pasture and tillage fields enclosed by stone walls. (Casey 2001)

Compiled by: Jean Farrelly

Date of upload: 24 November 2021

References

Casey, M. 2001 The coastal promontory forts of Ireland: interim report for the Heritage Council. Unpublished specialist report, National Monuments Service, Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.