Ringfort (Rath), Glebe, Castlecary, Co. Donegal

Ringfort (Rath), Glebe, Castlecary, Co. Donegal

In the townland of Glebe near Castlecary in County Donegal, the remains of an ancient ringfort stand as a testament to Ireland's early medieval past.

Ringfort (Rath), Glebe, Castlecary, Co. Donegal

This rath, measuring approximately 31 metres in internal diameter, sits close to the shores of Lough Foyle, positioned strategically on fairly good agricultural land. The site’s defensive location is enhanced by its proximity to a sheer drop leading down to a river on its southern side, a natural feature that would have provided additional protection to its inhabitants.

The ringfort’s most striking feature is its substantial earthen bank, which still rises to an impressive height of about 1.5 metres despite centuries of weathering. On the western side, visitors can trace the outline of an outer fosse, or defensive ditch, that once formed part of the fort’s protective perimeter. These earthworks would have originally supported a wooden palisade, creating a formidable barrier against raiders whilst providing a secure homestead for an extended family group and their livestock.



Unfortunately, modern development has taken its toll on this archaeological treasure; road construction has damaged the southern sector of the fort, disrupting its once near-circular plan. Despite this intrusion, the site remains a significant example of the thousands of ringforts that dot the Irish landscape, most dating from the early Christian period between 500 and 1000 AD. These structures served as fortified farmsteads for prosperous farmers, and this particular example’s location near good land and water sources suggests it was home to a family of some local standing.

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Glebe, Castlecary, Co. Donegal
55.18057978, -7.06476206
55.18057978,-7.06476206
Glebe, Castlecary 
Ringforts 

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