Martello Tower

On N shore of Great Island, directly S of Belvelly bridge which joins the island to the mainland. Circular tower (diam. 14.2m) with external flattened profile to E and W; faced on outside with coursed limestone ashlar. First floor entrance to SW with rounded arch (floor now gone); spiral staircase on S side of doorway gives access to ground floor and to roof level (not accessible as steps broken above 1st floor level). Windows with rounded arch at 1st floor level to E and W, on flattened sides, flanked by fire-places; quarried opening to N probably recent. Interior lined with brick; brick dome over 1st floor. Four radially arranged rooms at ground floor level, around central circular area; room to N has barrel vault of brick and served as magazine. One of three Martello Towers (CO075-026---; CO075-041---) guarding N side of Great Island (Kerrigan 1978, 148; Enoch 1975, 17-8). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009