Stone Circle

On level patch of bogland, on NW slopes of Musherabeg Mountain. Investigated by L.S. Gogan on 8th July, 1931 (Gogan 1931). No finds were recovered. Interior was flagged and great number of quartzite stones were found about entrance. Circle complete; axial and E side stone fallen since Gogan's time. Orthostats are 0.5m to 0.7m L, 0.35m to 0.5m T and 1.3m to 1.5m H. Internal measurement along main axis, aligned NNE-SSW, is c. 3m. Pair of standing stones (6558) c. 3m to SW, and radial-stone cairn (6490) 7m to E. (Ó Nualláin 1984a, 32, no. 54). National monument no. 420. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 12 December 2022 This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 165/1941).

Likely dating to the Neolithic or Bronze Age, the stone circle at Knocknakilla may have been used for ceremonial or ritual purposes, common in such upland settings. No specific folklore is recorded, but its location on a mountain slope suggests a possible alignment or viewshed significance.