What is recorded here

At base of cliff face on SW slopes of Hungry Hill. Block of sandstone (H 0.9m; Wth 1.2m), roughly shaped to serve as an altar. Natural cave c. 6m further up cliff face said to have been used as priests hide-out in penal times (O'Brien 1970, 22). 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

Linked to the tradition of Catholic Mass being celebrated in secret during the penal era, the site reflects the persecution of Catholics in Ireland and their resilience in maintaining faith. The natural cave nearby is believed to have provided shelter for priests fleeing authorities.

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