2025:448 - Ballynamonabeg, Wexford
County: Wexford
Site name: Ballynamonabeg
Sites and Monuments Record No.: N/A
Licence number: 25E0913
Author: Yvonne Whitty
Author/Organisation Address: Unit 10, Riverside Business Centre, Tinahely, Co. Wicklow
Site type: Habitation
Period/Dating: Multi-period
ITM: E 707602m, N 636409m
Latitude, Longitude (decimal degrees): 52.468504, -6.416320
An Archaeological Impact Assessment with Test Trenching at Ballynamonabeg was completed in October 2025. The proposed development site contains archaeological remains including two enclosures, a series of kilns, and associated pits and linear features. These remains are interpreted as forming part of a broader prehistoric
landscape, with activity likely spanning the Bronze Age and possibly extending into later periods. Four areas of archaeological significance were identified.
Area 1 – Plectrum-Shaped Enclosure and Associated Linear Features
Area 1 comprises a sub-triangular or plectrum-shaped enclosure ditch (C5), with a probable entrance on the northern side, and associated features including a linear feature of uncertain date (C4) and a small pit (C6). The enclosure is interpreted as a prehistoric or early medieval enclosure of high archaeological significance. The linear feature C4 may be archaeological in origin but has been truncated by later agricultural furrows, making its date and function uncertain.
Area 2 – Dumbbell-Shaped Kiln and Pit with Prehistoric Pottery
Area 2 contains a dumbbell-shaped kiln (C8) and an associated pit (C9) which produced prehistoric pottery. The kiln is indicative of agricultural activity, most likely dating from the later Iron Age to early medieval period. There was no evidence of cremated bone within the pit however its presence cannot be discounted.
Area 3 – Large Circular Enclosure
Area 3 contains a substantial circular enclosure ditch (C14), measuring approximately 55m by 52m, with a possible entrance and associated internal anomalies. The enclosure is interpreted as a settlement or ceremonial site of prehistoric or early medieval date.
Area 4 – Cluster of Kilns
Area 4 comprises a group of three sub-oval kilns (C10–C12) with clear evidence of in-situ burning and associated charcoal-rich deposits. These features are interpreted as corn-drying kilns likely of early medieval date, and form part of a wider settlement and agricultural processing landscape.