Ballinknockane facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballinknockane |
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| Native name Irish: Baile an Chnocáin |
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| Type | cillín, souterrain, hut sites |
| Etymology | Irish: "settlement of the little hill" |
| Location | Ballinknockane, Kilquane, County Kerry |
| Built | 5th–8th centuries |
| Owner | state |
| Official name: Ballinknockane Burial ground & possible church; Hut sites and souterrain | |
| Reference no. | 221.1416 |
Ballinknockane is a really old and important place in County Kerry, Ireland. It's known as a National Monument, which means it's protected because of its historical value. This site gives us clues about how people lived a very long time ago in Ireland.
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Where is Ballinknockane Located?
Ballinknockane is found in a beautiful part of Ireland. It's west of a mountain called Mount Brandon. You can also find it south of the Brandon Stream. It's about 7.3 km (4.5 mi) northeast of a town called Murreagh. Imagine a quiet, historic spot surrounded by nature!
What Can You Find at Ballinknockane?
This national monument is a collection of ancient structures. It includes a special burial ground, an old stone fort, underground tunnels, and even sites where huts once stood. These remains tell us a lot about early Irish communities.
The Cillín: An Ancient Burial Ground
One of the main features at Ballinknockane is a cillín (pronounced "kil-EEN"). This is a type of old burial ground. Sometimes it's also called a calluragh. What makes a cillín special is that it was often used for burying people who couldn't be buried in a regular church graveyard. This might include unbaptized babies or strangers. It's a fascinating look into ancient burial customs.
Cashels and Souterrains: Forts and Tunnels
Near the cillín, you'll find a cashel. A cashel is a strong, circular stone fort. People built these to protect themselves and their animals. Inside or near the cashel, there's a souterrain. A souterrain is an underground tunnel or chamber. These tunnels were often used for storing food, keeping valuables safe, or even as hiding places during attacks. It's like a secret underground passage from the past!
Ancient Hut Sites
Ballinknockane also has several places where ancient huts once stood. These are called "hut sites." They show us where people lived and worked centuries ago. Some of these hut sites even have special names:
- Cloghaunnageragh: This name means "Sheep Hut."
- Cloghaunglass: This one means "Green Hut."
- Lisnagraigue: This site also marks where an old dwelling once stood.
These sites help archaeologists understand how early Irish communities were organized and what their daily lives were like. Ballinknockane is a true window into Ireland's ancient history!
