Ballybreen Fort

In improved pasture on a SSE-facing slope, with good views, especially to S and within an extensive multiperiod field system (CL009-059001-). Hachured and named ‘Ballybreen Fort’ on the 1842 ed. of the OS 6-inch map. Similarly named on the 1897 OS 25-inch map and depicted as an incomplete circle open to the NNW. A somewhat overgrown circular enclosure (int. dims. 25.75m) defined by grassed-over wall collapse (Wth c. 1m) surmounted by a drystone wall (H 1.5m), probably of a later date. Two partly blocked-up alcoves (L 1m; Wth 1m) are visible in inner wall-face at E. The interior slopes gently to the S. A curving bank (Wth 7m; H 0.8m) visible on Digital Globe (2011-2013) extends from S to W at a distance of c. 33m from S and c. 14m from W. Two modern gates in the E and W walls give access to the interior which is currently serving as a cattle paddock. A concentric wall 4m outside the perimeter of the enclosure wall forms an avenue possibly now used for separating livestock. Compiled by: Mary Tunney and Lynda McCormack Date of upload: 1 February 2022

Ballybreen Fort is a ringfort, likely dating to the early medieval period, situated on a sloping site with strategic views. It is associated with local folklore surrounding fairy activity, as is common with such sites in Irish tradition.