Standing stone in Cloonkerry

In pasture, converted to forestry in December 2016, located on level top of a N−S elevation on the SE shore of Lough Carra. Ground falls away gently from the N edge of the elevation for c. 140m to the lakeshore. The location provides excellent views northwards across Lough Carra, with Croagh Patrick and Nephin visible in the distance to NNW and N, respectively. The Partry Mountains define the horizon to W, and the mountains of Connemara dominate at SW. Views are restricted at NE−SE by gently rising, undulating pastureland. Limestone slab (H 1.43m; W 1.1m NNE-SSW at base; T 0.5m at NNE end, 0.28m at SSW end) set upright in the ground, with long axis aligned NNE−SSW. The slab narrow gradually from the base (Wth 1.1m NNE−SSW) to the flat top (Wth 0.65m NNE−SSW) on its long axis. A right-angled vertical fracture, which extends the full height of the stone on its WNW face, gives the stone a roughly L-shaped cross-section, and causes an abrupt narrowing at the SSW end of the stone. The surface of the stone on its sides and top is naturally rather rough and corrugated in appearance; except for the SE face which is relatively smooth. The stone tilts slightly to WNW. A shallow depression encircles the base of the stone, caused by farm stock using the stone as a scratching post. Compiled: Jane O’Shaughnessy Date of upload: 20 January 2017

Probably dating to the Bronze Age, this standing stone may have had ritual or territorial significance, possibly aligned with landscape features or seasonal markers. Local folklore sometimes associates such stones with ancient heroes or protective spirits.