Enclosure in Knowth

This is part of Eogan’s (1984, 219-39) Phase 2 Later Western Neolithic material found W of the great mound, Tomb 1C, which is now dated to c. 3600-3500 cal. BC with the aid of Bayesian analysis although no C14 dates relate directly to it (Eogan and Cleary 2017, 39-40). Two slightly curved palisade trenches (L 58m) 8m to 11m apart were recovered in excavation to the SW of main mound. Where excavated they are roughly aligned N-S but are curving to the W at either end before they are eroded away. Closely-set post-holes and packing stones are evident in the trenches. If the trenches were completely circular, and they seem to have been destroyed elsewhere by ploughing, the area enclosed would have a maximum diameter of c. 120m with its centre far to the W of the excavated portions. There is a cobbled entrance (Wth 3.2m) through the excavated part of the W line at one point, but in this area the E trench cuts through the possible Neolithic house(ME019-020019-) so it is thought that the palisaded enclosure post-dates the house, and a kerbstone of Tomb 8 is placed over the line of the E trench. Some pits, hearths and work surfaces could be associated with the enclosure. Artefacts manufactured from pebble flint, largely scrapers, were recovered as well as a plentiful supply of Western Neolithic pottery. (Eogan 1984, 219-39; Eogan and Roche 1997, 44-5) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Meath' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1987). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 10 July 2007 Amended: 16/09/2020 See the attached plans: _1 Cemetery plan from Knowth 6, Fig. 2:1 _2 Enclosure plan from Knowth 1, Fig. 7