Hut site, Pollaguill, Co. Donegal
Co. Donegal |
Settlement Sites
In the sandy landscape of Pollaguill, County Donegal, a modest stone circle tells a quiet story of ancient habitation.
This hut site consists of a roughly circular enclosure, measuring 5 metres from north to south and 6 metres from east to west, formed by a simple line of stones. Whilst the southern section of the stone boundary remains relatively intact and clearly visible, the remaining circumference can only just be traced, with loose stones scattered about the area suggesting the structure's gradual decay over centuries.
The location appears to have been carefully chosen by its original inhabitants. Positioned approximately 100 metres east of the coastline, the site overlooks a stream that runs just 20 metres to the south. Beyond this waterway lies an area of good grazing land, which would have provided essential resources for anyone living here. The combination of fresh water, coastal access, and nearby pasture suggests this was once a practical dwelling spot, likely dating back to prehistoric times when such simple stone structures were common throughout the Irish landscape.
This archaeological feature was documented as part of the comprehensive Archaeological Survey of County Donegal, compiled by Brian Lacey and his team in 1983. The survey catalogued field antiquities across the county spanning from the Mesolithic Period through to the 17th century, helping to preserve knowledge of sites like this one that might otherwise be overlooked or forgotten. Today, whilst unassuming in appearance, this stone circle remains an important piece of Donegal's archaeological heritage, offering a tangible connection to the people who once called this windswept coastal area home.