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Doon Rock Fort is a likely early-medieval fairy fort or promontory fort associated with the O'Donnell dynasty, traditionally regarded as their inauguration site. Local tradition links the site to both historical and supernatural significance, blending early Irish kingship rituals with folklore surrounding fairy realms.
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Doon Rock is traditionally believed to be the inauguration site of the O'Donnells. In some respects, it can be said to resemble an inland promontory fort. It consists of a natural mound of rock somewhat oval in plan c. 150m N-S and c. 75m E-W. It rises dramatically from the surrounding wet land and is naturally defensive. The sides are steep but an approach is possible with difficulty from the S. Near the S side of the rock, there is a 2m change in level. On the N or upper side of this step and surviving for about 17m in length c. 3m wide and 0.3m in height is the remains of a collapsed and overgrown stone wall. About 5m from the W end of the wall, there is a gap 2m wide. The rock is much overgrown and uneven. (Kinahan as 1889, 284).
The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated.
Date of upload: 22 September 2008
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