What is recorded here

Ardonan holds a large earthen ringfort with a separate D-shaped annex, suggesting a complex residential or ceremonial site rather than a simple defensive ditch. The main enclosure measures nearly forty-six metres along its longest axis, while the annex stretches forty-one metres, indicating substantial local investment and sustained use. People likely lived, worked and gathered within these banks, transforming raw earth into a recognised neighbourhood landmark. Much of the original boundary has levelled, but the surviving causeway and deep fosse still mark the place as a built environment shaped by human hands.

Raised subrectangular area (int. dims. c. 46mNNW-SSE; c. 38m ENE-WSW) enclosed by a substantial, although partly levelled, earthen bank and a fosse. Only the outline of the perimeter can be traced from NE-E-SE. Break in bank with accompanying causeway at NNW probably represents original entrance. A large D-shaped annex (int. dims. c. 41m ENE-WSW; c. 23m NNW-SSE), defined by a low scarp, is separated from the main body of the rath by a wide, deep fosse. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cavan' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1995). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 22 December 2008

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.