Souterrain in An Dumhaigh (tc Cill Ghabhlaigh)

Built into W face of terraced hillside are the remains of an L-shaped passage (Wth 1m; H 0.8m; L 3m x 2m] defined by a drystone wall and roofed with stone lintels. Entrance opening (0.45m x 0.45m) in drystone wall faces W towards the sea and this opening may have been rebuilt in the 19th century. The function, dating or classification of this structure is uncertain. According to local information it was reused in the 1900's as a place where poitin was made. It is similar in construction to the hermitage site know as St Fanad's Cell (DG080-024) which is 285m to the E. Other monuments located nearby include St. Connell's Well (DG080-023), St Fanad's Well (DG080-024004-), bullaun stone (DG080-024001-), souterrain (DG080-024003-), standing stone (DG080-024005-) and burial ground (DG080-024007-) which are all located c. 280m to the E. The hillside into which the L-shaped passage has been constructed has a series of terraces (DG080-032002-) built into the slope of the hill in a manner similar to the terracing on Sceilg Mhichil in Co. Kerry. A small 18th/19th century cottage is located 50m N of this structure. It is possible that this L-shaped passage which is built like a souterrain may be contemporary with the ecclesiastical complex assoicated with St Faned and therefore may date from the medieval period. If this is the case it would seem likely that the terracing of the hillside also dates from this period. Alternatively the close proximity of the cottage to the N may suggest that this structure along with the terracing was built by the people who lived in this dwelling during the 18th/19th centuries.