Moat, Coolronan, Co. Meath

Co. Meath |

Mottes & Baileys

Moat, Coolronan, Co. Meath

The moat at Coolronan in County Meath stands as a well-preserved example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle, likely dating from the late 12th or early 13th century.

Located on a gentle southeast-facing slope, this defensive structure consists of a circular motte with a flat grassy top measuring approximately 13 metres across. The mound itself rises 5.4 metres high and spans about 25 metres at its base, creating an imposing presence in the landscape that would have provided excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

What makes this site particularly interesting is its intact fosse, the defensive ditch that encircles the motte. This ditch, though partially cut through by a modern lane on the western side, remains clearly visible and adds an extra metre of depth to the fortification's defences. The fosse varies in width from 7 to 11.5 metres at the top and narrows to about 3 metres at its base, demonstrating the considerable effort involved in its construction.

Archaeological evidence suggests there may have been a bailey attached to the eastern and southeastern sides of the motte; a fortified enclosure that would have contained buildings for everyday living and storage. Today, this area appears as a roughly rectangular space measuring about 31 by 20 metres, defined by a slight scarp that's still visible in the landscape. These baileys were essential components of motte and bailey castles, providing protected space for activities that couldn't take place on the restricted summit of the motte itself.

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