What is recorded here

Mullaghakaraun holds a huge circular fort on a north-facing slope, large enough for dozens of people and strong enough to resist surprise. Its three earthen banks and dug ditches still mark the boundary, though time and ploughs have worn parts away. Inside, faint square walls suggest a hut where someone lived, loved, argued or raised children. The fairies may have taken the name, but the shape and size belong to human hands and human days.

Situated on the N facing slope of high ground in undulating countryside. Large circular area (diam 95m N-S) enclosed by 3 earthen banks; inner bank (Wth 2.3m; int. H 1.5m; ext. H 4.5m); second bank (Wth 2.3m; ext. H 1m) which is only visible from N to E, external bank (Wth 3m; ext. H 0.5m) only visible at NW elsewhere it is destroyed. Intervening fosse between the first two banks (Wth 2.5m; ext. D 2m) is the best preserved with second fosse barley discernible at NE elsewhere destroyed with no evidence of a third outer fosse. There is evidence for a causewayed entrance (Wth 5m) at E. The second enclosing bank is only visible from N to E elsewhere it is destroyed. In the northern sector of the interior are the grass covered wall footings of a possible hut site (OF021-001002-) square in shape with possible dividing cross wall. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 23 May 2011

A fairy fort or earthen ringfort in Mullaghakaraun is a large circular enclosure with three earthen banks, likely dating to the early medieval period. It is associated with local folklore surrounding fairies and other supernatural beings, common in Irish tradition.

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