What is recorded here
On N shore of Great Island, directly S of Belvelly bridge which joins the island to the mainland. Circular tower (diam. 14.2m) with external flattened profile to E and W; faced on outside with coursed limestone ashlar. First floor entrance to SW with rounded arch (floor now gone); spiral staircase on S side of doorway gives access to ground floor and to roof level (not accessible as steps broken above 1st floor level). Windows with rounded arch at 1st floor level to E and W, on flattened sides, flanked by fire-places; quarried opening to N probably recent. Interior lined with brick; brick dome over 1st floor. Four radially arranged rooms at ground floor level, around central circular area; room to N has barrel vault of brick and served as magazine. One of three Martello Towers (CO075-026---; CO075-041---) guarding N side of Great Island (Kerrigan 1978, 148; Enoch 1975, 17-8).
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
Add the human story, a picture, a first-hand message or a missing place.
Earn 5 points after the picture is checked and accepted.
Add a pictureAdd its storyTalk or ask a questionAdd a new placeThe monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.
Conversation about this place
Questions and messages sit beneath the source record. They are checked before appearing.
No questions or messages yet.
Ask a question or join the conversation