Structure in Skahanagh North

The remains of a C-shaped structure were discovered during archaeological monitoring and were subsequently excavated in advance of the construction of the N8 Rathcormac-Fermoy Bypass. The structure was found c. 160m to the W of a rath (CO053-010----) which was partially excavated and radiocarbon dated to AD 620-690. The excavator concluded that it was contemporary with this possible rath and represented domestic activity associated with it. The remains consisted of a trench (Wth 1.4m; D 0.6m) enclosing an area with an internal diameter of 7m by 9m. It had an entrance (Wth 3.7m) at the NE, facing the adjoining rath. Within the structure were found charcoal pits, hearths with cremated bone and the possible remains of kiln flues. Immediately outside the structure two deep pits, with heavily oxidized bases representing in situ burning, were evident. (Murphy 2006k, 76-7; 2006m, 1-87) The above description is derived from 'The Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 5' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2009). Date of upload: 22 December 2009