Ringfort (Cashel), Killaghtee, Co. Donegal

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Ringforts

Ringfort (Cashel), Killaghtee, Co. Donegal

In the townland of Killaghtee, County Donegal, the remnants of an ancient cashel occupy a commanding position on elevated ground amidst relatively fertile farmland.

This circular stone fort, measuring approximately 15 metres across internally, has seen better days; much of its original defensive wall has collapsed over the centuries. Today, a modern wall follows the footprint of the old fortification, though keen observers can still spot sections of the original cashel stonework peeking through here and there.

What makes this site particularly intriguing is the old roadway that runs just north of the cashel. This ancient track, measuring 2.35 metres wide, is flanked on both sides by earthen banks and ditches, creating a defined corridor that stretches northeast towards Dunkineely village. Such roadways were typical of medieval Ireland, serving as important transport routes between settlements and defensive sites.

Cashels like this one were the Irish equivalent of ring forts, built from stone rather than earth and timber. They served as fortified homesteads for farming families of some standing in the community, providing protection for people, livestock and stored crops. The choice of this elevated location wasn't accidental; it offered both defensive advantages and good drainage for the stone structure, whilst keeping watch over the surrounding countryside and the old road that connected this isolated stronghold to the wider world.

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Pete F
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