Inner Rectangular Enclosure — Croaghan Island

In the level SE quadrant of an oval enclosure/possible cashel (DG017-031001-) Rectangular structure (c. 15m N–S; c. 12m E–W) defined by a stone bank/wall, reduced now to a low grass- and bramble-covered rise (Wth 1.2-1.4m; H 0.3-0.4m). On the E side, the wall appears more substantial, with a higher external scarp (Wth c. 2m; ext. H 1m) coinciding with a natural break of slope on the E perimeter of the larger oval enclosure. There is a low area/rough gap in the middle of the W wall, a low area or break in the N wall, and rough breaks at the SW and SE corners of the structure. There are two low, vegetation-covered stony mounds (2-2.5m across), possibly field clearance heaps, in the interior. This enclosure is not shown on any edition of the OS 6-inch maps. Its outline is most clearly seen in aerial view. It is difficult to trace at ground level, and difficult to interpretation and date. It is probably, but not necessarily, contemporary with the outer oval enclosure. It is probably, but not necessarily, contemporary with the outer oval enclosure (MA017-031001-). It may have been an animal pen, but it is not impossible that it is the ruins of a building/house. Notified to National Monuments Service by Martin Cauley. Attached image: DG017-031002-_01.JPG Rectangular enclosure viewed from S DG017-031002-_02.JPG Rectangular enclosure viewed from E Compiled by: Jane O’Shaughnessy Date of upload: 20 June 2023