2009:105 - TULLA, Clare

Targeted pre-development testing was carried out on 20 July 2009 on the site of geophysical anomalies found at a proposed residential development at Tulla, Co. Clare. Four trenches measuring 20–25m long and 2m wide were opened at the site. A deposit of heat-shattered stone in a matrix of dark-brown silty clay with frequent charcoal staining was uncovered at the site of one of the anomalies in the southern part of the development site. The deposit extended 3.7m northeast/south-west within the trench and a small section cutting revealed a maximum thickness of 0.21m. A second feature measuring 2.8m long within the trench, and comprising of a deposit of dark-brown clayey silt with occasional heat-shattered stone and charcoal inclusions, was uncovered immediately to the south-west of the burnt spread. The two features are most likely associated and are interpreted as the remains of a possible fulacht fiadh. Preservation in situ was recommended. No other archaeological material was uncovered during testing.