Mass-rock in Gortnacrusha South

According to O'Regan (1960, 29) 'mass was celebrated in the eastern side of this townland, in the glen by the river, in Penal times'; 'cave' marked the spot but now only 'bold face of the rock' remains. Exact location not known. 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

This mass-rock is associated with the clandestine celebration of Catholic Mass during the Penal Times in Ireland, when Catholic worship was outlawed. The site reflects the broader tradition of mass-rock usage across Ireland, often linked to local saints and used as a place of spiritual resistance and community gathering.