Wedge tomb in Mongnacool Lower

Situated on a gentle S-facing slope in a small area of scrubby ground with outcropping rock beside a stream (10m W of the tomb). A rectangular chamber (dims. 1.3m x 4.55m) aligned NE-SW, which is largely intact, defined by five sidestones at the N, two to the S, an inset backstone at the E end, and some earthfast boulders. A possible forecourt at the SW end is defined by a vertical slab with the same alignment as the chamber. There is some outer walling on the W side including a small cist-like structure. A raised area (Wth 7.7m; L 7.8m) surrounding the chamber marks the location of the cairn. A single capstone towards the SW entrance survives in situ. Structural stones are of granite and greywacke, and there is a suitable greywacke outcrop 20m to the NE. The tomb is not marked on the 1838 OS 6-inch map. It was investigated by Kinahan in or shortly before 1879, who found a few fragments of charcoal scattered about the gallery and a 'small heap of charcoal' at the E end (Kinahan 1880, 253-7). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Wicklow' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 17 December 2008 This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 142/1940).

Wedge tomb, dating to the Late Neolithic or Early Bronze Age (c. 2500–1000 BCE). Its intact rectangular chamber and alignment suggest it is a significant example of a funerary structure associated with early farming communities in the region.