Burial ground in Cloch Eidhneach

In pasture, to S of 'Bealach Feabhradh the ancient highway of Cill-na-Martra' (Murphy 1897, 277) and within early ecclesiastical site of Cill Lachtaín (CO069-032----). Known as ancient cemetery of Clohina and described by Murphy (1898, 17) as 'very large'. Cleared by order of clergy c. 1835 and divided into two parts by stone fence running E-W (ibid.). On S side of field fence is rectangular area (49m E-W; 20m N-S) enclosed by tone field fence to N and E and by slight scarp (H 0.3m) to S and W; no grave markers noted; known by landowner as burial ground and no tcultivated. However, cultivation of this area in late 19th century revealed several stone-lined graves (L 6-7ft; Wth 26in; D 2ft) covered by flags (ibid.). No visible surface trace of burial ground on N side of fence except for cairn of stones locally known as site of church of St Lachtaín. At point where scarp to SW meets E-W field fence is remains of a circular stone structure (5.3m N-S x 4.4m E-W; max. H 2m), apparently pre-dating field fence; lower courses irregular, of large stones; upper courses of dry-stone walling. Murphy (ibid.) recorded three principal tombs within burial ground; according to local information one contained four underground vaults, roofed with large flags, covered by a mound of earth and stones. The SE tombs were left undisturbed during the clearance and all headstones from burial ground were piled up around two of them. Accordingto local tradition (ibid.), main entrance to graveyard was at NE corner from 'Bealach Feabhradh'; back entrance at W end leading from St Lachtaín's holy well (CO069-080----) and church. Back entrance marked by two pillar stones, one with Ogham inscription (CO069-082----). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009