Burial ground in Robertstown

In 1964 'over thirty skeletons were discovered, buried in a low gravel-ridge' (Danaher 1964) during quarrying operations. Most of these were removed prior to the site being archaeologically investigated, and the topsoil removed so that 'it was impossible to ascertain if there had been any surface indications of the graves' (ibid.). Investigations revealed 'a further seven skeletons, all of adults, in four separate graves, close to one another and all orientated East-West' (ibid.). There were no grave goods. The conclusion was that these were burials 'from the Christian Period' and, because they were buried in unconsecrated ground, 'the result of a plague or famine in the area' (ibid.). This area is now part of an industrial complex. Compiled by: Denis Power Date of upload: 26 August 2011

A Neolithic burial ground; significant for the discovery of over thirty skeletons, indicating early settlement and funerary practices in the region.