Crannog, Woodhill (Kincraigy Ed), Co. Donegal
Co. Donegal |
Settlement Sites
Hidden within Sessiagh Lake lies a remarkable stone platform that appears to be entirely artificial, measuring roughly 19 metres north to south and 20 metres east to west.
This ancient crannog, a type of fortified lake dwelling common in Ireland and Scotland, was carefully constructed by placing stones to create a stable island foundation in the water. The builders clearly invested considerable effort in this endeavour, creating not just a simple platform but a sophisticated defensive structure.
Atop this manufactured island sits a circular drystone enclosure, its walls skilfully built with stones fitted together without mortar. The enclosure wall, which still stands up to a metre high in places and measures about 80 centimetres thick, was strategically positioned about a metre in from the island's edge; likely to prevent erosion and provide additional defensive space. The northern interior features a cleverly designed lintelled drain hole, demonstrating the builders' understanding of the need for proper water management on their artificial island home.
At the northeastern end of the crannog, a stone landing stage measuring 2.5 by 1.9 metres provides evidence of how residents accessed their island stronghold. This landing platform appears to have been built at the same time as the main enclosure, suggesting the entire complex was planned as a single, cohesive defensive dwelling. While the exact date of construction remains uncertain, crannogs like this one at Woodhill were typically occupied from the Iron Age through to the medieval period, serving as secure homesteads for local families or chieftains seeking protection from both human threats and wild animals.