Enclosure, Foffanagh, Co. Donegal

Enclosure, Foffanagh, Co. Donegal

On the southern slope of Kinnagoe Hill in County Donegal, the weathered remains of an ancient stone enclosure offer a glimpse into Ireland's distant past.

Enclosure, Foffanagh, Co. Donegal

The site commands sweeping views across Lough Swilly to the southwest and west, a strategic position that would have been as valuable to its original builders as it is scenic today. This modest structure forms part of a small cluster of archaeological features; a possible second enclosure lies just 35 metres to the northeast, whilst what may be a radial stone enclosure can be found 39 metres to the southeast.

The enclosure itself is relatively small, measuring roughly 4.3 by 3.5 metres internally. Its most distinctive feature is a semi-circular arc of low standing stones, each about 60 centimetres high, that curves away from the western face of a natural rock outcrop. This outcrop cleverly serves as the back wall of the enclosure, showing how ancient builders incorporated the landscape’s natural features into their constructions rather than working against them.



Though time and weather have taken their toll on these remains, leaving them in what archaeologists describe as poor condition, they still tell an important story about how people once lived and worked in this corner of Donegal. The site was documented by Caimin O’Brien and added to the archaeological record in November 2010, ensuring that even as the physical stones continue to deteriorate, knowledge of this ancient place will endure.

Rated 0 out of 5

Good to Know

Tags

Visitor Notes

Review type for post source and places source type not found
Added by
Picture of IrishHistory.com
IrishHistory.com
IrishHistory.com is passionate about helping people discover and connect with the rich stories of their local communities.
Please use the form below to submit any photos you may have of Enclosure, Foffanagh, Co. Donegal. We're happy to take any suggested edits you may have too. Please be advised it will take us some time to get to these submissions. Thank you.
Name
Email
Message
Upload images/documents
Maximum file size: 50 MB
If you'd like to add an image or a PDF please do it here.

Foffanagh, Co. Donegal
55.16142499, -7.38757216
55.16142499,-7.38757216
Foffanagh 
Enclosures 

Related Places