Cahervagliar Ringfort

This large earthen ringfort is situated near the village of Cappeen in West Cork. It is unusual in terms of the arrangement of its enclosing banks and ditches and the presence of a stone-lined entrance passageway within the inner bank. The size and complexity of its construction indicate that around AD 1000 this fort was the homestead of person of some importance, perhaps a local chieftain. The ringfort consists of a substantial bank that is surrounded in turn by a small ditch, a small bank and a large outer ditch. The diameter of the inner enclosure is 42m while the overall diameter of the fort is 75m. The massive inner bank was originally stone-faced on both sides and traces of this can still be seen in places around its circumference. The stone-lined entrance is unique in earthen ringforts, although similar constructions are known in the Irish stone forts. The passage was covered by a series of eight large stone lintels. As there was no causeway across the outer ditch leading to the entrance, there may have been a wooden bridge here providing access. Please note that many of these monuments may be on private land and may not be publicly accessible. When setting out to visit monuments please ensure that you wear appropriate footwear and clothing. Access to monuments without Visitor Services may be across uneven ground which may not be suitable for everyone and, in particular, wheelchair users.