Ballyallaban ringfort facts for kids
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An Rath
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_-_geograph.org.uk_-_3074975.jpg) |
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 Location in Ireland
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| Alternative name | Doon |
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| Location | Parish of Rathborney, the Burren |
| Region | Ireland |
| Coordinates | 53°05′24″N 9°09′31″W / 53.09005°N 9.158578°W |
| Type | Ringfort |
| History | |
| Material | earth |
| Periods | unknown but likely early Medieval |
| Site notes | |
| Public access | Yes |
| Reference no. | 648 |
Ballyallaban ringfort (Irish: Baile Albóin) is an ancient circular fort made of earth. It is located south of Ballyvaughan in the Burren area, in County Clare, Ireland. Sometimes, it is called An Rath, which means "The Rath" in Irish. This special place is protected as a National Monument. This means it is an important part of Ireland's history. It was likely built a very long time ago, possibly in the early Middle Ages.
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Where is Ballyallaban Ringfort?
This old fort is found in a beautiful area called the Burren. It is in County Clare, Ireland. You can find it right next to the R480 road. This road runs between the village of Ballyvaughan and Leamaneh Castle. The fort is specifically located in the townland of Ballyallaban. This is part of the civil parish of Rathborney.
What Does Ballyallaban Ringfort Look Like?
The Ballyallaban ringfort is a circular shape. Its inside area is about 100 feet across. If you include the surrounding ditch, called a moat, it's about 200 feet wide. The fort is in good condition today. However, many trees have grown on its structure over time.
How Was the Fort Built?
The walls of the fort are called ramparts. They were made from the earth that was dug out to create the moat. This moat still fills with water after it rains. The walls were probably much taller when the fort was first built. The moat was also likely deeper. The top of the earthen wall probably had a wooden fence, called a palisade. This would have given extra protection.
Why is Ballyallaban Ringfort Important?
Ballyallaban ringfort is an important historical site. It is protected as a National Monument by the Irish government. The official monument, number 648, actually includes two separate forts. One is the earthen Ballyallaban ringfort. The other is a nearby stone fort called Cahermore. Both are important examples of ancient Irish settlements.
