Barrow — stepped barrow in Longstone (kilcornan Par.)

On top of the level summit of a prominent hill with panoramic views in all directions. A standing stone (TS058-079----) is visible 800m to the NE; a large barrow 1.5km to the WSW and a mound-barrow (TS058-047----) 1.8km to the S. Four monuments are visible at ground level in the interior; a standing stone (TS058-023004-) atop the centre of the stepped-barrow, a ditch-barrow (TS058-023005-) in the berm in the SW quadrant, a second ditch-barrow (TS058-023007) in the berm against the inner edge of the fosse at SSW and a ring-barrow (TS058-023006-) in the berm between the inner edge of the fosse at SSE and the SSE edge of the central mound of the stepped barrow. The enclosing elements are in good condition with the exception of the SW quadrant of the external bank which is very degraded and low in profile. Enclosure consists of a circular area (diam. 56m) defined by an earthen scarped edge (Wth 1.25 m; H 0.3-0.5m) with a flat-bottomed fosse (Wth at base 1.6-2m) and a broad external bank (overall Wth 3.5-4.2m; Wth at top 1.2-1.8m; int. H 1.15-1.3m; ext. H 0.25-0.4m). The scarped edge and fosse enclose the monument on all sides and have a consistent gently sloping profile. The external bank encloses the monument but is best preserved W to S where the profile is low broad and consistent. The external bank is degraded and irregular in profile S to W. A causeway across the fosse and break (Wth 4m) in the external bank at ESE marks the position of the original entrance.The interior is dry and clear of overgrowth across the N three-quarters with dense gorse in the S one-quarter. Compiled by: Jean Farrelly Date of revised upload: 23 July 2012