Add your own picture and explain the route, parking, gates, paths or landmarks that help people find it.
Earn 5 points after the picture is checked and accepted.
Add your photo and local directionsShare what you foundWhat is recorded here
Atop high ground with good views of undulating countryside, church (LA021- 010001-) and graveyard (LA021-010002-) immediately to the N. A flat-topped mound (diam. c. 13m, H 3m-3.5m) surrounded by a wide shallow fosse with a substantial bailey (int. dims. c. 50m N-S, c. 75m E-W) which is defined by a bank (Wth 8-9m, int. H c. 1m, ext. H 2.5m-3m) and external fosse (Wth c. 7m) except at N. Entrance at E. The site appears to have been a henge monument that was converted into a motte and bailey. Standing stone (LA021-021004-) within centre of henge (LA021-021001-) that was reused as a bailey for the adjoining motte. Reference to a mound here (O'Hanlon and O'Leary 1907, vol. 1, 316). This is a reference to the motte at Skirke.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload: 17 December 2007
The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.