Doonmore facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Doonmore |
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| Native name Irish: An Dún Mór |
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View of the fort
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| Type | promontory fort |
| Etymology | great fort |
| Location | Doonsheane, Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry |
| Area | 2.93 ha (7.2 acres) |
| Built | 5th–8th centuries |
| Owner | state |
| Official name: Doonmore Promontory Fort | |
| Reference no. | 221.45 |
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Doonmore is an ancient fort located in County Kerry, Ireland. It's known as a promontory fort, which means it's built on a piece of land that sticks out into the sea. This special site is also recognized as a National Monument, protecting its historical importance.
Where is Doonmore Located?
Doonmore is found on a beautiful headland that reaches out into Dingle Bay. It is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) southeast of Dingle town. This location made it a great spot for defense.
When Was Doonmore Built?
Historians once thought that promontory forts like Doonmore were built during the Iron Age. However, new studies suggest they were actually built much later. Doonmore was likely constructed during the early Middle Ages, specifically between the 5th and 8th centuries AD. This makes it a very old and important historical site.
What Does Doonmore Look Like?
Doonmore is built on a large piece of land that covers about 2.93 hectares (7.2 acres). To protect the fort, its builders dug a deep ditch to cut off the headland from the main land. They also built strong stone walls and multiple layers of earthworks, called vallations, to make it even harder for enemies to attack. These defenses show how important safety was to the people who lived there long ago.
