2003:0288 - LISNAGAR DEMESNE (2), Cork

Testing was carried out in advance of construction along the route of the proposed N8 Rathcormac–Fermoy Bypass on behalf of Cork County Council. In 2002, during this phase of centre-line testing, the remains of a burnt-stone spread were exposed in Lisnagar Demesne. The site was subsequently designated Lisnagar Demesne 2 and was excavated in September 2003.

An area measuring 522m2 was opened around the fulacht spread. Three areas of heat-shattered sandstone and charcoal, which originally formed one fulacht spread, subsequently disturbed by ploughing, were exposed. The area of the original burnt mound had minimum dimensions of 6.5m by 7m, although it may have been more extensive. An oval-shaped trough, three pits and 33 stake-holes were also identified. The trough measured 2m by 1.8m and was cut into the natural subsoil with a depth of 0.1m. The pits were spread out across the site and were filled with fulacht material, suggesting that they underlay the original mound. However, one pit, subcircular in shape with dimensions of 2m by 1.5m, contained 29 stake-holes within its base. This may represent the remains of a timber structure, perhaps a meat store. Four other stake-holes located beside the trough may be the remains of a structure such as a windbreak.

This fulacht fiadh was located beside a stream, on the far side of which was situated another fulacht. It is considered that both fulachta fiadh are contemporary, but only radiocarbon analysis will confirm this. A programme of post-excavation analysis will commence early in 2004.

This work was funded in full by the National Development Plan 2000–2006 and was awarded by the National Roads Authority.

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