Enclosure in Ardkearagh

Not marked on the OS maps this oval enclosure, 7m N-S x 12m E-W, is located on a terrace overlooking the Finglas river to N. Incorporated in its circuit are the foundations of a circular hut at E. The blocked opening to a Man-made underground passage is located adjacent to the enclosing bank at NNE. Intermittent stone facing of coursed slabs revets the enclosing element and some uprights flank its external face. The sod-covered wall is on average 1.8m wide and 1.25m high externally. The well-built hut (KE098-120001-) measures 3.75m N-S x 2.6m E-W internally, and its walls are composed of an inner and outer facing enclosing an infill of small stone. The wall survives .25m high and is 1.5m wide. The interior of the hut is occupied by much stone collapse. Large slabs block the opening to the Man-made underground passage, the passage of which appears to run N-S. The Man-made underground passage (KE098-120002-) is drystone-built and is roofed with lintels. The above description is derived from A. O'Sullivan and J. Sheehan (compilers), 'The Iveragh peninsula: an archaeological survey of South Kerry'. Cork University Press (1996), no. 699. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 29 July 2013