On a subrectangular headland projecting into the Atlantic, connected to the mainland by a narrow neck with a distinctive V-shaped profile, lies a fascinating example of Ireland's layered defensive history.

In the pastoral landscape of Rathdrought, County Cork, a rectangular earthwork sits on a south-facing slope that overlooks a stream below.

In the lowlying pastures of Clasharusheen, County Cork, local tradition holds that this unremarkable field was once home to the chief residence of Clan Aineslis O Donovan.

On a rock outcrop within a farmyard in Lissangle, County Cork, lie the remains of what locals still call 'Coppinger's Castle'.

On a small rocky promontory overlooking Bear Island Sound stand the ruins of Dunboy Castle, once the stronghold of the O'Sullivan Beare clan.

On top of a dramatic rock outcrop in Castlequarter, County Cork, the remnants of Dungourney Castle tell a story of medieval power and Victorian road building.

Standing on a south-southwest facing slope in County Cork, the remains of Scart Castle command impressive views across the southern and western landscapes.

On a rocky outcrop in Lettertinlish, County Cork, the land itself remembers what the eye can no longer see.

In the countryside near Raheen in County Cork, a medieval moated site sits quietly on a south-facing slope, its ancient earthworks still visible despite centuries of farming and development.

Standing on a limestone outcrop above the Funshion River in County Cork, Cloghleagh Castle is a formidable five-storey tower house that once belonged to the Condon family.

At the narrow neck of the Old Head of Kinsale, where the land pinches to just 120 metres wide, stands Castle and Tower, Downmacpatrick; a formidable medieval defensive complex built by the de Courcey family in the 15th century.

Along the eastern bank of the Owenacurra river's tidal stretch lies the site of what was once Castle Redmond, though you won't find any stone walls or turrets there today.

Davis's Castle in Ballymorisheen, County Cork, stands as an intriguing example of how Irish domestic architecture evolved through centuries of modifications and adaptations.

On a steep west-facing slope above the Cloghnagashee river stand the crumbling remains of Carrignavar Castle, now largely reduced to a four-metre-high mound of rubble.

In the quiet countryside of County Cork, near Newmarket House, lies a field that holds more history than meets the eye.