What is recorded here

Gallaun is a 3.43-metre standing stone in Glanleam, County Kerry, trapped inside a much younger earthwork called Cromwell's Fort. The ancient upright predates the fort by millennia, creating a strange layer where new power wrapped itself around old stone rather than removing it. A leaning slab now braces its base, perhaps added after the stone began to shake, while a former school stands nearby, letting children paste modern life against a marker that has watched the peninsula for generations.

Marked on 1842 OS 6-inch map as single standing stone. Not shown on 1903 and 1940 OS 6-inch maps. Former school (Colaiste Iosagáin) stands on site. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Likely dating to the Bronze Age, the standing stone at Gallaun may have served as a territorial marker or ceremonial site. Its omission from later maps suggests possible damage or removal, while local folklore may have linked it to saintly or legendary figures, given the nearby name Colaiste Iosagáin (St Joseph’s School).

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