County: Kildare Site name: Barnhall, Leixlip
Sites and Monuments Record No.: N/A Licence number: 20E0660
Author: David McIlreavy
Site type: Medieval ringfort, field system, kiln
Period/Dating: —
ITM: E 698953m, N 735689m
Latitude, Longitude (decimal degrees): 53.362131, -6.513327
Archaeological excavations were undertaken at Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare. A number of archaeological features were discovered during the excavations, interpreted as two phases of archaeological activity.
Phase one consisted of a stone-rich artificial platform (C5), formed of redeposited clay with frequent stone inclusions. This feature was constructed directly on the underlying subsoil. No artefacts or dating material were discovered at this feature.
The second phase of activity consisted of a curvilinear ditched enclosure (C3) with an associated field boundary feature. This feature extended beyond the excavation area but has a recorded diameter of 40m suggesting that this could represent an early medieval ringfort (Plate). Excavation of the ditch fill material suggested the existence of a collapsed external bank feature.
A kiln (C25) with two phases of use was also discovered. The primary phase consisted of a bowl-shaped cut and the secondary phase consisted of a stone-lined flue and possibly a working platform. A pit feature (C17) was identified on the interior of the enclosure. A section of linear field boundary (C37) extending from the south-east area of the enclosure is also considered to be contemporary.
No other features of archaeological importance were recorded during excavations. It is proposed to process all samples and subsequently commission specialist analyses of all appropriate sub-sample environmental residues (charcoal, seeds, etc.) and appropriate analysis and conservation of artefacts (as required). Following the results of this specialist analysis, it is anticipated that selected sub-samples from the site will be suitable for radiocarbon dating which will assist in confirming the chronology of the site.
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