Ringfort (Cashel), Leargain Riach, Co. Donegal

This subcircular fortification, measuring approximately 26 metres north to south and 22 metres east to west, consists of a ruined stone wall that once enclosed a small community or farmstead. The eastern section has been partly incorporated into a modern field wall, but much of the original structure remains visible. Two stone slabs positioned perpendicular to the cashel wall mark what appears to be the original entrance, a gap measuring 2.45 metres wide.

The interior of the cashel slopes downward from south to north, with a natural ridge of rock running east to west across the southern portion of the site. Archaeological evidence suggests at least one building once stood within the enclosure; a subcircular stone foundation approximately 3.5 metres in diameter can still be seen on the eastern side. This would have likely been a dwelling or storage structure associated with the cashel's inhabitants.

The choice of location reveals careful consideration by its builders. The knoll drops steeply by four to five metres on the southern and eastern sides, providing natural defensive advantages, whilst the northern and western approaches are more gradual. Today, light pasture surrounds the site amongst numerous rock outcrops, much as it might have appeared centuries ago. This information comes from the Archaeological Survey of County Donegal, compiled by Brian Lacey and colleagues in 1983, with subsequent updates providing additional context for this glimpse into Ireland's ringfort tradition.