Lisnagowan Ringfort facts for kids
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Lios na nGabhann
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 Location in Ireland
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| Location | Lisnagowan, Drumahaire, County Cavan, Ireland |
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| Coordinates | 54°03′30″N 7°18′19″W / 54.058257°N 7.305186°W |
| Type | ringfort |
| History | |
| Material | earth |
| Founded | c. AD 550–900 |
| Site notes | |
| Ownership | private |
| Designation | National Monument |
Lisnagowan Ringfort is an ancient site located in County Cavan, Ireland. It is a special type of old fort called a ringfort (also known as a rath). These ringforts were built a very long time ago, usually between the years 550 AD and 900 AD. People used them as homes and to protect themselves and their animals. Lisnagowan Ringfort is also a National Monument, which means it's a very important historical place protected by the government.
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What is a Ringfort?
A ringfort is a circular area surrounded by an earthen bank and a ditch. Imagine a big, round fence made of earth! These structures were common in Ireland during the early medieval period. They were built by farmers and their families. The banks and ditches helped to keep out wild animals and protect against enemies.
Why Were Ringforts Built?
Ringforts served as homes for families and their livestock. They were like small, protected farms. The strong walls and ditches offered safety from raids by other groups. They also showed how important or wealthy a family was. The bigger the ringfort, the more important the family might have been.
How Were Ringforts Made?
Most ringforts were built using earth and stones that were easily found nearby. Workers would dig a circular ditch and pile up the soil to create a bank. Sometimes, they would add a wooden fence or a stone wall on top of the bank for extra protection. Inside the ringfort, there would be houses, storage areas, and pens for animals.
Where is Lisnagowan Ringfort?
Lisnagowan Ringfort is found in County Cavan, Ireland. It is located about 1.6 kilometers (about 1 mile) north-northeast of a town called Ballyhaise. You can find it on the north bank of the River Annalee. Its location near the river would have been good for water and farming in ancient times.
Lisnagowan as a National Monument
Being a National Monument means that Lisnagowan Ringfort is a very important historical site. The Irish government protects these places to make sure they are preserved for future generations. This protection helps us learn about how people lived in Ireland many centuries ago. It reminds us of the rich history of the land.
