2023:144 - Corkagh Park, Corkagh Demesne, Clondalkin, Dublin

Additional test excavations took place at an area referred to as the ‘Hub Zone’ located to the north of Corkagh Regional Park, Corkagh Demesne, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. The remains of a large structure, likely those of Corkagh House, were discovered during test excavation (23E0213) in April 2023. Corkagh House was initially constructed c.1650 and extended westward between 1702-14. The house was completely demolished in the early 1960s. Historical records suggest that Corkagh House was built upon or incorporated the remains of Castle (RMP DU021-011001). Further investigation was requested by the department so that the full nature and extent of the archaeological features within the subject area be recorded. Works took place from 29 June- 7 July 2023.

Topsoil stripping was undertaken across an irregular shaped area measuring roughly 57m north-east/south-west x 20m with an area of approximately 705 sq. m as agreed in advance with the NMS. The works revealed several foundations for walls on a variety of alignments (C8, C9, C10, C11, C13, C15, C16, C17, C18, C20, C21, C22, C24) and two cobbled floor surfaces (C14, C19) alongside evidence of demolition/rubble layers (C2, C7, C23), a tunnel (C5), modern utilities (C4, C6, C12, C25, C27) and modern path (C26). Some artefacts were recovered in the form of a chimney-pot fragment, roof tile and floor tile fragments, black glazed pottery and a small iron bar. Only one of these, a small iron bar (23E0423:11:2), was recovered from a secure context.

All foundation walls seemed to be relatively modern in date and correspond to the C17th & C18th structures depicted on historical mapping. There was no evidence of the Historical Castle (RMP DU021-011001) which was suspected to be in this location.  

Archer Heritage Planning, Unit 1, Tenure Business Park, Co Louth A92 K2VF