Cabragh Ringfort facts for kids
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Ráth na Cabraí
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 Location in Ireland
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| Location | Cabragh, Cootehill, County Cavan, Ireland |
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| Coordinates | 54°03′14″N 7°06′32″W / 54.05389°N 7.109000°W |
| Type | ringfort |
| History | |
| Material | earth |
| Periods | Bronze or Iron Age (c. 2400 BC – AD 400) |
| Site notes | |
| Ownership | private |
| Designation | National Monument |
Cabragh Ringfort is an ancient circular area surrounded by banks and ditches. It is also called a rath. This special place is found in County Cavan, Ireland. It is protected as a National Monument. This means it is an important historical site that must be preserved.
Cabragh Ringfort is located about 2.7 kilometres (1.7 miles) southwest of Cootehill.
Contents
What is a Ringfort?
A ringfort is a type of ancient settlement. It was a home or farm surrounded by one or more circular banks and ditches. These were built a very long time ago. They were common in Ireland during the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Early Medieval period.
Why were Ringforts Built?
People built ringforts for several reasons. The main reason was for protection. The banks and ditches made it harder for enemies or wild animals to get in. They also helped to keep farm animals safe inside.
Ringforts also showed how important a family was. A larger or more complex ringfort often meant the family living there had more wealth or power. They were like a family's private castle.
Who Lived in Ringforts?
Most ringforts were home to farming families. They lived there with their livestock, like cows and sheep. Inside the circular enclosure, there would have been wooden houses. There were also places for cooking, storing food, and keeping animals.
Archaeologists have found evidence of daily life inside ringforts. This includes tools, pottery, and animal bones. These finds help us understand what life was like for people thousands of years ago.
How Many Ringforts Are There?
Ireland has many thousands of ringforts. They are one of the most common ancient sites in the country. Many are still visible today as circular bumps in fields. Some are well-preserved, like Cabragh Ringfort. Others are just faint outlines.
Cabragh Ringfort Today
Cabragh Ringfort is a great example of these ancient homes. It helps us learn about the people who lived in Ireland long ago. As a National Monument, it is protected for future generations to study and enjoy.
