Ecclesiastical enclosure in Croagh North

On a low rise to the N of the Rathborney River, with views from ESE to W and within the modern graveyard (CL005-027005-) attached to Rathborney church (CL005-027002-). Named ‘Rath boirne’ on Robinson’s map (1977). According to Westropp (1901, 278) it was already ‘much defaced by interments’. A roughly circular enclosure (37m E-W; 34m N-S) defined by a scarp (H 0.6-1.2m) from S to SE. Outside of this, from S to WNW, there is a terrace (Wth 2.8m) and a second outer scarp (H 0.9m). A gap in the scarp at SSE may indicate an entrance. The interior is highest in the centre and a Man-made underground passage (CL005-027004-) entrance is located NW of centre. A bullaun stone (CL005-027005-) lies just outside to the ESE and the church (CL005-027002-) is located immediately NE. Swinfen (1992, 110) suggested it might have been a ‘secular site’, prior to the construction of the church and graveyard. However, Swan (1991, 109) listed it as an ecclesiastical site with substantial evidence for an enclosure, and the presence of the bullaun stone does support this supposition. Compiled by: Mary Tunney and Ros Ó Maoldúin Date of upload: 25 January 2022

A likely early-medieval ecclesiastical enclosure, possibly associated with Rathborney church, situated on a low rise near the Rathborney River; the name 'Rath boirne' may derive from a holy well or early Christian settlement. Local tradition and the site's proximity to a graveyard suggest historical or religious significance, though specific folklore is not well recorded.