Fulacht fia in Mooretown (castleknock By.)

In 2022, a geophysical survey (Detection Licence: 22R0036) identified a identified a series of responses and trends that formed a sub-circular enclosure measuring c. 45m x 38m overall (Site 6). Several isolated responses were found within the interior of the enclosure. These were suggestive of pit-type features. To the north of the enclosure, broad responses indicative of burnt material were identified (Site 7). These features were confirmed by archaeological testing in May of that year. Both sites were then fully excavated under Licence 24E0411 from March 2024 to November 2024. Site 7 comprised a ploughed out fulacht fia or burnt mound, with associated troughs and pits, which was truncated by a series of later linear ditches. The fulacht fia was situated in low lying ground that flooded periodically during the winter months and after heavy rain. Two troughs were identified within the southeastern quadrant. The larger trough contained three postholes and two pits within the base. The radiocarbon dating has confirmed that the Site 7 Fulacht Fia was in use during the Early to Middle Bronze Age.   Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien based on details provided by Catríona Baldwin