Sweathouse in Tullaghyrory

Marked 'Sweat House' on OS 1836 and 1876 eds. Situated in wet low-lying ground, c. 50mSSW of the River Shannon. Largely collapsed. Small circular drystone-built structure (int. diam. 1.7m) of bee-hive type construction. The upper portion of the wall has collapsed and has been partly rebuilt by the landowner (local information). The roof has also collapsed. Original entrance was probably at N. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cavan' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1995). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 22 December 2008

A sweathouse tradition linked to health cures, particularly for respiratory and skin ailments, involving ritual sweating and the use of herbal poultices. Such structures are often associated with pre-Christian healing practices, later incorporated into Christian traditions and sometimes linked to Saint Brigid or local saints.