Megalithic tomb in Na Cluainte

This structure, located on the low-lying level land S of Smerwick Harbour, was removed about 40 years ago. The only visible remains consist of an irregular area, 10m x 4m, raised slightly above the surrounding field level. Westropp (1910, 203) described the feature as a 'dolmen', comprised of 3 roughly rectangular chambers partly embedded in a low mound. The contiguous but irregularly-positioned chambers were defined by large slabs, up to 8 feet (c. 2.4m) long, but no heights were recorded. Internally the chambers measured c. 8 foot 10 inches (c. 2.7m) x 4 feet (c. 1.2m), c. 4 foot 2 inches (c. 1.3m) x c. 7 feet 6 inches (c. 2.3m) and 5 feet 2 inches (c. 1.6m) x 4 feet 2 inches (c. 1.3m). The largest chamber was roofed by 2 large slabs, the others by a single slab each. The 2 larger chambers were aligned NE-SW but did not form a straight line. The W chamber was set slightly further S than the E one, and the angle formed between the two at S was occupied by the smallest chamber. From the description and plan provided by Westropp, it is not possible to classify this monument with certainty. It may have consisted of a group of cist-graves or of an unclassified megalithic tomb. The above description is derived from J. Cuppage, ‘Corca Dhuibhne. Dingle Peninsula archaeological survey. Ballyferriter. Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne’ (1986), no. 37. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 3 August 2013 This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 6/1932).