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Rathard facts for kids

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Rathard
An Ráth Ard
Rathard is located in Ireland
Rathard
Location in Ireland
Location Garryheakin, Oola,
County Limerick, Ireland
Coordinates 52°31′03″N 8°18′24″W / 52.517617°N 8.30665°W / 52.517617; -8.30665
Altitude 159 m (522 ft)
Type ringfort
Diameter 43 m (141 ft)
History
Material earth
Periods Bronze or Iron Age (c. 2400 BC – AD 400)
Site notes
Ownership private
Official name Rathard Fort
Reference no. 555

Rathard is an ancient place in County Limerick, Ireland. It is a special type of old fort called a ringfort. Ringforts were round areas where people lived long ago. Rathard is also known as a National Monument. This means it is a very important historical site protected by the country.

Location of Rathard

Rathard is found on a high piece of land. It is about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) west-southwest of a village called Oola. This elevated spot would have been a good place for people to see anyone approaching.

What is a Ringfort?

A ringfort is a circular area that was used as a home or farm in ancient Ireland. They were built by digging a ditch and using the earth to create a bank around the outside. This made a strong, safe place for families and their animals.

When Was Rathard Built?

Rathard was built a very long time ago. Experts believe it dates back to the Bronze Age or Iron Age. This means it was built between about 2400 BC and AD 400. Imagine people living there thousands of years ago!

How Big is Rathard?

The main part of Rathard is about 43 meters (141 feet) across. This shows it was a good size for a family or small community. It was made mostly from earth, which was dug and piled up to form its protective walls.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Rathard - Aherla para niños

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