2024:421 - Kilmacduagh, Donegal

Monitoring of the resurfacing of two sections of paths within the graveyard and the repair of a collapsed section of the boundary wall of the graveyard (RMP GA128-034017), at Kilmacduagh, Co. Galway, was carried out under Ministerial Consent No. C001372 (Reg. No. E005695). The repair of a collapsed section of the southern section of the boundary wall took place in July 2024, while the resurfacing of the paths was undertaken in November 2024. The graveyard is part of the monastic complex at Kilmacduagh, which is a National Monument (No. 51).

The collapsed section of the boundary wall measured 4.4m long and 0.7m wide at its base.  The repairs to the wall were carried out by a qualified stone mason.  The stonework along the collapsed section was thoroughly inspected for any architectural fragments, cut or dressed stone. None were in evidence. Leamix was visible in the collapsed section, suggesting it had been repaired in recent times. The wall was not reduced below the surrounding ground level or the base of the existing wall. Only the collapsed stone was used in the repair.

Two sections of the path within the graveyard required resurfacing. The first section was located adjacent to, and along the the full length of, the southern boundary wall of the graveyard.  It had loose gravel sections, tarred sections and occasional cement visible along its surface. It measured 117m long, 2-2.5m wide and was covered in grass and moss. The second section of path was located between the south-west corner of the graveyard and a point 7.8m from the doorway in the south wall of the cathedral. This path was comprised entirely of loose gravel and measured 49m long and 1.2-2m wide.

The removal of vegetation along the paths was carried out using a two-ton machine with a 1m wide toothless bucket, a mechanical weeder, shovels and spades. Levels were not reduced, only vegetation removed. No artefacts were found during the works. Nothing of archaeological significance was in evidence.