Standing stone in Gortnaglogh

Not marked on the 1841 or 1962 editions of the OS 6-inch maps. A sandstone conglomerate (max. base L 1.08m; Wth 1.13m; H 1.38m) roughly rectangular in plan, narrowing towards the top and tilting sligtly to W. Two small pieces of sandstone protrude from the soil around its base. The ground around it has been eroded, probably by cattle using the stone as a scratching post. Known locally as the 'Mass Rock' and believed to bave been used in Penal times as a mas site (Feehan 1979, 237). 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

Probably dates to the Late Neolithic or Bronze Age, based on its form and construction. Its purpose may have been ritual or commemorative, though no specific folklore or recorded use is associated with the site.