Mound in Ballykilmurry

Not visible at ground level. Stanley (1870-71, 27-9) describes the site as a large tumulus (diam 15 yds) with three large stones (OF016-006002-) placed in a line on its summit. According to local information the mound was bulldozed several years ago. According to Stanley there was a possible megalithic structure (OF016-043----) known as the 'giants bed' located in close proximity to the mound. Pre-development testing was carried out by Caitríona Gleeson for The Archaeology Company under licence No. 07E0704 of a proposed development site at Ballykilmurry, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, due to the presence of a mound site (OF016–006----) within the development area. The test excavation was undertaken on 20 July 2007. Construction at the site will not directly impact on the mound, which will remain in situ as a landscape feature. Four trenches of varying lengths were excavated at regular intervals (broadly 5m apart) across the north and west of the site following the footprint of proposed construction. A number of 19th- and 20th-century landscape features were exposed including a possible hedgerow bank, field boundaries, furrows and drains. Anomalous charcoal patches were noted in two of the four trenches at the site (Bennett 2010, 395). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Compiled by Caimin O'Brien Date of upload/revision: 07 November 2011

A Neolithic tumulus; significant as a rare surviving example of a prehistoric burial monument in the region, with in-situ standing stones indicating possible ritual or ceremonial use.