Gallauns

On level bog-covered shoulder, on NW-facing slope of W end of Maughanaclea Hills. Excavated in 1938 (O Ríordáin 1939, 46-49). Circle complete; stones are 0.7m to 1.65m L, 0.25m to 0.45m T and 0.65m to 1.2m H. Internal measurement along main axis, aligned NE-SW, is 2.8m. Excavation showed that stones were not deeply sunk in ground, but were packed at base with small stones. Two shallow trenches intersecting at right angles, filled with dark humified soil, were found within circle, and interpreted as trenches for crossed wooden sleepers which may have held an upright. No finds recovered from circle. Complex also comprises radial stone cairn (CO106-00603-) to E and pair of standing stones (CO106-00602-) to NE. (O Nualláin 1984, 41, no. 81; Roberts 1988, Ch.5, no. 26) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 1: West Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1992). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009 This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 69/1938).

Likely dating to the Late Neolithic or Early Bronze Age, the stone circle at Gallauns, Kealkill may have been used for ceremonial or ritual purposes, as suggested by its intact circular arrangement. No specific folklore is recorded, but such sites were often associated with communal gatherings or seasonal rituals in prehistoric Ireland.