Sweathouse in Hermitage (barrymore By.)

Built into natural slope on steep overgrown N bank of Butlerstown river. Mentioned by Power (1923, 204) as 'clochán-like structure, now very decayed....it was roofed on the beehive principal and was furnished with fireplace and chimney'. Remains of circular stone-built structure (int. H 1.6m; diam. 3.3m; wall thickness 0.63m); lintelled fireplace in W wall; break in wall to SE may be entrance. Only indication of corbelling is short section to N comprised of two courses of oversailing masonry. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Linked to ancient sweat-house or clochán rituals, possibly used for purification or healing ceremonies; such structures were often associated with early Christian or pre-Christian traditions involving fire, water, and spiritual cleansing. The site reflects a continuity of ritual practice in rural Irish landscapes, though specific saints or cures connected to this example are not recorded.