2026:247 - Greenoge and Collegeland, Dublin

A programme of archaeological testing and metal detection was undertaken of a site at Greenoge and Collegeland, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin. A review of aerial imagery of the site identified the cropmark of a circular enclosure with an annex. This possibly represents the correct location of enclosure DU021-029, which is plotted c. 17m south of the development area. Investigations targeted the potential enclosure and annex along with open green space. Two areas of archaeological significance were identified: Archaeological Area 1 and 2 (AA1 andAA2).

AA2 contains the circular enclosure (C27) and annex (C19) initially identified in the aerial imagery. Both features are defined by large ditches with the north-western section of the enclosure (C27) respecting a curve in the townland boundary (no longer extant) separating Greenogue and Collegeland. Three additional ditch features (C18.1, C18.3, C20.1) located within proximity may represent external boundaries or divisions associated with a field system.  A tentative early medieval date is suggested given the form and dimension of the sites and the lack of material culture identified. AA1 is located west of AA2 and consists of a single charcoal spread (C1.1) and post-hole (C1.2) likely associated with the features identified in AA1, possibly representing external activity outside of the enclosure.

No archaeological objects were recovered during the course of metal detection. Field drains, clay pipes, a stone culvert and relict field boundary recorded on site represent various phases of agricultural land improvement works from the post-medieval to modern periods.