This crudely constructed stone altar dates from the era of the Penal Laws, when Catholic worship was forbidden and priests risked imprisonment or death for celebrating Mass. The altar itself consists of an irregular stone slab measuring roughly 70cm long, 42cm wide and 30cm high, oriented northwest to southeast. The construction shows the resourcefulness of those who built it; a single boulder supports the northeast side, whilst the northwest and southeast sides rest on larger upright stones topped with narrow horizontal slabs that act as packing stones, creating a relatively level surface for the celebration of Mass.

The altar’s construction reveals both practical necessity and religious reverence. On the northwest side, an upright stone measuring 30cm high supports two horizontal slabs, whilst the southeast side features a basal stone of 25cm height with another slab on top. Notably, the southwest side remains open, presumably serving as a space where sacred vessels and other liturgical items could be temporarily placed during the clandestine ceremonies. These Mass rocks, as they’re known throughout Ireland, served as outdoor altars where communities gathered in secret to practice their faith despite the harsh penalties imposed by the authorities.

Today, this secluded spot continues to hold significance for the local community. A cairn erected nearby in 1980 marks renewed interest in preserving this piece of religious heritage, serving as a testament to both the persecution endured by Irish Catholics and their determination to maintain their faith against all odds. The wet, scrub-covered location that once provided concealment from British soldiers now offers visitors a tangible connection to this dark chapter in Irish history.