What is recorded here

Enclosure in Ballymacthomas is a buried oval ring on a limestone table, now hidden beneath rich pasture and a wandering field fence. Its central mound still holds a shallow circular depression, perhaps marking a hole for a pole, a fire or a ritual that no longer names itself. The wide view in every direction suggests the site was built to be seen, judged or celebrated across the valley rather than concealed.

'This oval enclosure is situated on top of a low table-like rise of limestone outcrop in a reclaimed field now used for rich pasture. The location of this site affords panoramic views in all directions. A north-south running field fence traverses the enclosure at its eastern extremity, the remainder of the site being barely visible in the field to the east. Total dimensions of the site are 50.0m N-S by 42.0m E-W. The bank of this oval enclosure has a maximum width of 7.50m, with a maximum external height of 0.80m and a maximum internal height of 0.45m. The bank is constructed predominantly of limestone rubble with some earth. The interior of the enclosure has a slightly dished appearance. Centrally placed within the interior is a stone and earth mound/cairn measuring 13.6m N-S by 14.0m E-W, and is 0.45m in height. A circular central depression, 5.00m in diameter, occurs on the mound. The bottom of this depression is 0.39m below the crest of the mound. A second similar mound, though not as coherent, abuts the immediate north side of this first mound. Both the enclosure and mound are now grass covered. No trace of an external ditch or entrance was in evidence. Internal dimensions of the enclosure are 35.40m N-S by 28.0m E-W.' Compiled by Michael Connolly for the Archaeological Survey of Ireland as part of a survey of the Lee Valley area in 1996-97. Date of upload: 03 May 2012

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