2024:766 - Raffeen 1, Cork

The excavation of Raffeen 1 revealed that prehistoric activity (including cremation pits and a suspected round-house) was being undertaken on the site as well as later agricultural and modern activity. It is hoped that radiocarbon dating of the selected samples will allow more activity to be dated and the phasing of activity to be refined. The date obtained for that site will also determine whether it was contemporary with the other activity in neighbouring sites on the scheme.
The excavation of this site has added greatly to the evidence previously recorded for prehistoric activity in the area and, following further post-excavation analysis, this will be integrated into the archaeological results from elsewhere on the scheme.
The specialists’ work carried out in association with Raffeen 1 will provide invaluable information on activities carried out on site, allow comparison to related sites and establish the date of the site. It is anticipated that the osteo-archaeological examination of the cremated bone will determine the number and percentage of individuals present, sex, age and whether they individuals exhibit any evidence of
osteo-arthritis or other degenerative bone disease. The osteo-archaeologist may also be able to identify animal bone within the cremated remains which may suggest feasting prior to burial. The analysis may also be able to determine how the bone was treated prior to interment such as whether the bone was cleaned and or crushed before burial establishing a wider picture of the funerary practices and rituals
associated with death and burial in prehistoric Ireland. Analysis of the charcoal should yield information on the type of fuel burned and whether there are any plant remains present which will help build a snapshot of the surrounding environment in Raffeen 1 at that time. The analysis of the prehistoric pottery will shed light on the use of the pottery which is associated with the structure.