Souterrain in Ballyarra

Exposed in 1953 during gravel quarrying c. 30m from N bank of Bride river; excavated by Fahy (1953, 55-9). Prior to excavation, W and S walls of single stone-built chamber (approx. dims. L 2.5m; Wth 1m; D 1.95m) had collapsed and a 2m deep layer of habitation refuse was exposed. Excavation showed that entrance (at E side) was through unrevetted oval pit (L 2.1m; Wth 1.8m; D 2.2m) and creephole, N jamb of which survived. Only poorly-built N wall of chamber remained. Finds included bronze ring-pin, iron pin, hone stone, flint, iron slag and furnace bottom. Small quantities of animal bones and a number of human (infant) bones were also found as well as two pieces of antler. According to Fahy, bronze ring-pin 'has been dated to the 7th century AD'. Fahy concluded that chamber and pit deliberately filled with refuse over a short period probably facilitated by removing chamber roof. Absence of a pit lining may indicated that structure never completed. 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