Leacht in Killoluaig

Situated in level pasture, KE088-010002- occupies a roughly rectangular area which is delimited by modern field boundaries. Within this is an oval-shaped enclosure, an earthwork complex and a number of house sites. The enclosure contains a leacht and a gable-shrine, a holed stone, and numerous uninscribed grave-markers which relate to the use of the site as a ceallúnach (OSNB Killemlagh, 20). A pillar stone is incorporated into the external face of the enclosing element at S. A second ceallúnach (KE088-011001-) is located a short distance to E. Leacht (KE088-010003-): This raised rectangular platform measures 4.3m NNW-SSE x 2.3m WSW-ENE, and is located in the NW quadrant of the enclosure KE088-010012-. It is defined on three sides by contiguous uprights. Of stony composition, its upper surface appears to have been paved with flags, some of which remain. An L-shaped slab lying on the W side of the leacht may be a displaced paving stone; it may be the 'broken stone cross' referred to by Henry at this site (1957, 100). The above description is derived from A. O'Sullivan and J. Sheehan (compilers), 'The Iveragh peninsula: an archaeological survey of South Kerry'. Cork University Press (1996), no. 960. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 30 July 2013

Leacht in Killoluaig is associated with Saint Lua, a 6th-century Irish saint known for his ascetic practices and numerous miracles. The site is linked to local traditions of healing and pilgrimage, with the holy well believed to have curative properties, particularly for eye ailments and general wellness.