Aughrim Ringforts facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Aughrim Ringforts |
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| Native name Irish: Ráthanna Eachroma |
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| Type | ringfort |
| Location | Attidermot, Aughrim, County Galway, Ireland |
| Elevation | Aughrim Fort: 103 m (338 ft) Lisbeg: 82 m (269 ft) |
| Owner | State |
| Official name: Aughrim Two Ringfort | |
| Reference no. | 371 |
The Aughrim Ringforts are two ancient circular forts found in County Galway, Ireland. These special sites are protected as a National Monument, which means they are important parts of Ireland's history.
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Where are the Aughrim Ringforts?
You can find the Aughrim Ringforts on farmland about 900 meters (or half a mile) south of Aughrim, County Galway. They are located on Aughrim Hill and are about 335 meters apart from each other.
A Look Back in Time: The History of Ringforts
Ringforts were built in Ireland a very long time ago, between the 6th and 12th centuries. Think of them as protected farmsteads where families lived and kept their animals safe. They usually had a circular wall or ditch around them to keep out unwanted visitors.
The Aughrim forts were built in a great spot. From here, people could see far across the countryside. They also overlooked the Melehan River, which flows into the Suck. This gave them a good view of anyone approaching.
What Do the Ringforts Look Like?
There are two main ringforts at this site, each with its own story.
Aughrim Fort: A Fort with a Battle Story
This fort is a type called a univallate ringfort, which means it has one main protective wall or ditch. It's about 40 meters (or 130 feet) wide.
Aughrim Fort is also known as General St. Ruth's Fort. This name comes from a famous battle that happened nearby in 1691, called the Battle of Aughrim. During this battle, the Irish Jacobites (a group fighting for King James II) placed their cannons here. Sadly, General St. Ruth, their leader, was shot and killed in a field not far from the fort.
Lisbeg: The Smaller Fort
Lisbeg is also a univallate ringfort, just like Aughrim Fort. It is also about 40 meters (or 130 feet) wide. It stands as another example of these ancient protected homes.
