Known locally by its Irish name, Dún Bhéal Atha na nDeisig, this circular fort dates back centuries and represents a typical example of the ringforts that dot the Irish landscape. When surveyed in 1840, the site still retained much of its impressive structure; a circular mound measuring approximately 117 metres in circumference at its base, rising nearly 8 metres on its eastern side to a summit platform that stretched about 23 metres across.

The fort’s defensive features were particularly notable in the Victorian survey. A broad trench, measuring about 6.4 metres wide, once encircled the base of the mound, providing an additional layer of protection for those within. This trench was itself surrounded by an outer rampart or fosse, though by 1840 this earthen bank had already been completely destroyed. The fosse had originally enclosed the defensive ditch on three sides; east, south, and west by north; whilst on the northeast side it gave way to a curious flat, square platform measuring roughly 35 by 22 metres.

Today, whilst time and agriculture have undoubtedly altered its appearance since that 1840 description, Athneasy Fort remains an evocative reminder of Ireland’s medieval past. Its proximity to the church and graveyard suggests this was once an important local centre, possibly serving as both a defensive structure and a symbol of power for the local nobility who controlled this part of Limerick.