What is recorded here

Gaulstown encloses a broad circular hill in County Kilkenny, large enough to be seen from a distance and visible still after a new owner levelled part of it in 1962. The lost moat may have marked a residence, a boundary or a warning, while the weapons dug up nearby suggest that the land remembered violence as well as pride. What remains is a wide pale disc in the grass, holding the shape of the part that was taken away.

On top of a prominent hill, in rolling upland grassland. There are very good views in all directions. The OS Letters (1839), mention a 'large moat' in this townland and near it, 'some military weapons of great antiquity were dug up many years ago, but none of them can be had at present' (O'Flanagan 1930, vol. 1, 18 (6)). It is shown on the 25-inch OS map as a large raised circular area (int. diam. c. 57m; overall diam. c. 80m). According to O'Kelly (1969, 51), 'The Moat of Gaulstown at 600', a fine earthen structure and prominent landmark, was levelled by a new land-owner in 1962'. Despite this the large circular hillock is still clearly visible (ASIAP (110) 27-33 and 36, 22 July 2000; Digitalglobe imagery viewed 8 January 2019). Compiled by: Jean Farrelly Date of upload: 8 January 2019

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