Loughbracken Fort facts for kids
Ráth Loch Breacáin
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Alternative name | Loughbracken Fort, Loughbrackan Mound |
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Location | Loughbrackan, County Meath, Ireland |
Coordinates | 53°50′09″N 6°40′38″W / 53.835872°N 6.677293°W |
Type | Motte |
Area | 314 square metres (0.078 acres) |
Diameter | 20 metres (22 yd) |
Circumference | 63 metres (69 yd) |
Height | 3 metres (9.8 ft) |
History | |
Material | earth |
Founded | late 12th, early 13th century AD |
Designation | National Monument |
Loughbracken Fort is an interesting historical site located in County Meath, Ireland. It is a special type of ancient castle mound known as a motte. Today, it is recognized as a National Monument, which means it is an important part of Ireland's history that is protected for everyone to learn about and enjoy.
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Where is Loughbracken Fort?
Loughbracken Fort is found in a peaceful area of County Meath. It is located to the west of a lake called Lough Bracken. You can find it about 2.2 kilometers (1.4 miles) southwest of a village named Drumconrath.
What is Loughbracken Fort?
Loughbracken Fort is a large, circular mound of earth. It has a flat top, which is where a wooden tower or small fort would have stood a very long time ago. This mound is surrounded by a ditch, also known as a fosse. The ditch would have made it harder for enemies to get close to the fort.
How Big is the Fort?
This impressive mound is about 3 meters (10 feet) high. It measures around 20 meters (66 feet) across its widest part. The fort was built using earth, showing how people used natural materials to create strong defenses.
When Was it Built?
Loughbracken Fort was built a very long time ago, likely between the late 12th century and the early 13th century AD. This was a time when many motte-and-bailey castles were being constructed across Ireland and Europe. They were important for defense and control of the land.