Field system in Ross (clare By.)

In low-lying pastureland in the immediate vicinity of Ross Errilly friary (GA041-047----). Aerial reconnaissance (CUCAP AYO 11; ASGAP 349:3-4) in 1969 and again in 1986 showed a pattern of roughly rectangular fields, defined by earthen banks, covering an area 280m NE-SW by 130m NW-SE. Traces of cultivation ridges were clearly visible within them. In 1969, a substantial bank and fosse were visible along its E and S limits but these had been partially removed by 1986. This may be part of 'the enclosing wall and ditch [of the monastery]' referred to by Cochrane (1901, 335-6), though its line runs well inside the position of the gatehouse (GA041-047001-). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Galway Vol. II - North Galway'. Compiled by Olive Alcock, Kathy de hÓra and Paul Gosling (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1999). Date of upload: 05 August 2010