Rathsoony facts for kids

Rathsoony is an ancient site in County Galway, Ireland. It is a type of old fort called a ringfort. Today, Rathsoony is protected as a National Monument of Ireland. This means it is an important historical place that must be preserved.

What is Rathsoony?

Rathsoony is a special kind of ringfort. It was built between the 1st and 9th centuries AD. Ringforts were circular settlements surrounded by banks and ditches. People lived inside these forts, and the banks and ditches helped protect them.

The name "Rathsoony" comes from the Irish language, Ráth an tSonnaigh. This means "Ringfort of the palisade". A palisade was a strong fence made of wooden stakes. This tells us that Rathsoony likely had a wooden wall around it for extra protection.

Where is Rathsoony Located?

Rathsoony is found in a place called Masonbrook. This is near the town of Loughrea in County Galway. It is about 4 kilometers (2½ miles) southeast of Loughrea. The site covers an area of about 0.6 hectares (or 1.5 acres).

Exploring Rathsoony's Design

Rathsoony is unique because it is a "quadrivallate" rath. This means it has four main parts to its defenses. Instead of just one bank and ditch, it has a central raised area (a rampart). Around this, there are two ditches (called fosses) with another raised ring between them. This design made it very difficult for enemies to get inside.

The fort also has a "sunken way." This was a path that was lower than the surrounding ground. It might have been used as a hidden entrance or pathway.

What is a Souterrain?

Inside Rathsoony, there is also a souterrain. A souterrain is an underground passage or chamber. These were common in ancient Ireland. People used souterrains for different reasons. They could be used for storing food, as a safe hiding place, or even as a cool place to stay during hot weather.

Rathsoony gives us a glimpse into how people lived and protected themselves many centuries ago in Ireland.