2022:351 - BLARNEY: Shean Upper, Stoneyview, Cork

Archaeological testing was undertaken at Stoneview, Blarney, Co. Cork in June 2022.

A total of 12 trenches were mechanically investigated across the test area which measured 305 linear metres in total. The trenches targeted the features identified during a geophysical survey conducted across the site in February 2022 by TARGET Archaeological Geophysics Ltd to gain a better understanding of the features, and their nature of significance. The geophysical survey identified two possible fulachta fiadh features, a possible circular enclosure, and linear and pit anomalies.

Testing has confirmed four areas of archaeological potential across the site (Archaeological Areas 1-4; AA1-4). These consist of 2 burnt mound sites (fulachta fiadh) at AA1 and AA2; shallow pits at AA3; and a circular enclosure (c. 42m diameter) defined by an enclosing ditch at AA4. Each of the areas corresponds to areas of potential identified in the previous geophysical survey.

The most significant finding is at AA4 where an enclosing ditch defines an area c. 42m in diameter on an elevated area of the site with commanding views to the south in particular. No other features of archaeological significance were recorded internally within the enclosure and the ditch fills were generally sterile. A single possible pit was recorded in the area to the south of the enclosure.