Fulacht fia in Fermoy — Report the wrong picture

What is recorded here

Heats-shattered stones and charcoal-rich soil mark a rectangular trough in Fermoy, built with a charred timber lining and tiny corner stakes. Radiocarbon dates place its use from the Late Bronze Age into the Early Iron Age, when people likely heated water for cooking, cleaning or ritual. The compact shape suggests a busy domestic or ceremonial spot rather than a grand monument, yet it preserved the patience of hands that kept its edges smooth and its fire steady.

A small spread (diam. c. 5m) of heat-shattered stones and charcoal-enriched soil were uncovered during archaeological testing of the N8 Rathcormac-Fermoy Bypass. The spread was subsequently excavated in 2003 revealing a rectangular trough (2m x 1.5m; max. D 0.4m) with rounded corners. Fragments of a charred timber lining were recovered from the base of the trough and underneath the lining were found four tiny stake-holes, one in each corner of the trough. A further two stake-holes were found outside the base lining of the trough. The results of radiocarbon analysis showed that this fulacht fia was in use from at least the Late Bronze Age to the Early Iron Age. (Murphy 2004, 87, Fermoy 1; 2006a, 59) The above description is derived from 'The Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 5' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2009). Date of upload: 22 December 2009

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