What is recorded here

Leacht in Leataoibh Mór marks two parallel stone mounds inside Templenacloonagh, where quartz still glints among the ruins. The western mound wears cross-inscribed stones at its edge, suggesting prayer or warning rather than ordinary burial. The site faces Smerwick Harbour, inviting people to imagine whether they laid dead, treasure or memory beneath stones visible from the sea.

Templenacloonagh/Teampall na Cluanach: Sub-rectangular enclosure KE042-113001- lies on a very gentle WNW facing slope and commands a good clear view in all directions, particularly NW to Smerwick Harbour. Within it can be seen the remains of an oratory, a 2nd building which is possibly a church, and 2 possible hut sites. Leachts: Centrally positioned in the S half of the enclosure are 2 parallel mounds of stone, including a large quantity of quartz. The W mound measures 5.5m N-S x 2.5m E-W x .6m in height and its W limit is marked by the 2 cross-inscribed stones and by a single course of stone facing. The E mound measures 5.25m N-S x 3.5m E-W x .6m in height. The above description is derived from J. Cuppage, ‘Corca Dhuibhne. Dingle Peninsula archaeological survey. Ballyferriter. Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne’ (1986), no. 866. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 9 August 2013

Linked to Saint Gobnait, the site is traditionally associated with cures for eye ailments and fertility. The surrounding folklore suggests that the saint established a settlement here, and the well was used in seasonal rituals, particularly in spring, when offerings were made for protection and healing.

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