Barrymore is a barony of County Cork, in the historical province of Munster (Irish: Barraigh Mhóra), covering 610 km² of land. The barony records 1,120 NMS archaeological sites and 686 NIAH listed buildings, placing it at around the 48th percentile among 280 ROI baronies for sites per km². This means it is in the lower half of all baronies for sites per km². Dated archaeological evidence runs from the Neolithic through to the Modern, spanning 8 of 9 archaeological periods, placing the barony in the 66th percentile among 280 ROI baronies for chronological depth. This means it is in the upper half of all baronies for chronological depth. The largest dated subset of recorded sites dates to the Early Medieval. Logainm flags 90 placenames in the barony as carrying a recognised heritage root; the largest share — around 50% — are names associated with early Christian church and monastic foundations.
Heritage at a glance
Percentile rankings throughout this profile compare each barony only against the other 279 Republic of Ireland baronies.
The recorded heritage of Barrymore
The National Monuments Service Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) is the statutory inventory of archaeological sites for the Republic of Ireland, maintained by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. Sites recorded here include earthworks, ringforts, megalithic tombs, ecclesiastical remains, and post-medieval features; not every record is legally protected, but each is registered as a monument of archaeological interest.
The National Monuments Service records 1,120 archaeological sites in Barrymore, putting it at the 48th percentile among 280 ROI baronies for sites per km². This means it is in the lower half of all baronies for sites per km². Protection coverage is near-universal — 1,024 sites (91%) fall within a recorded monument protection zone, indicating an extensively surveyed landscape. The dominant category is defensive sites — ringforts, enclosures, hillforts, and stone forts (471 sites, 42% of the record). Ringfort – rath is the most prevalent type, making up 26% of the barony's recorded sites (291 records) — well above the ROI average of 20% across all baronies where this type occurs. Ringfort – rath is an earthen ringfort enclosed by a bank and external ditch — the most common Early Medieval farmstead, broadly dated 500–1000 AD. Other significant types include Fulacht fia (151) and Enclosure (98). Fulacht fia is a horseshoe-shaped Bronze Age burnt mound built around a sunken trough beside a water source, traditionally interpreted as a cooking site; Enclosure is a banked or ditched feature of uncertain type, used as a catch-all where the original function cannot be determined from surface evidence. Across the barony's 610 km², this gives a recorded density of 1.84 sites per km².
Most common monument types
Hover or tap a monument type to see its definition.
| Type | Count |
|---|---|
| Ringfort – rath an earthen ringfort enclosed by a bank and external ditch — the most common Early Medieval farmstead, broadly dated 500–1000 AD | 291 |
| Fulacht fia a horseshoe-shaped Bronze Age burnt mound built around a sunken trough beside a water source, traditionally interpreted as a cooking site | 151 |
| Enclosure a banked or ditched feature of uncertain type, used as a catch-all where the original function cannot be determined from surface evidence | 98 |
| Church a building used for public Christian worship, of any date from c. 500 AD onwards | 49 |
| Standing stone a deliberately set upright stone, used variously as a Bronze/Iron Age burial marker, route marker or commemorative monument | 49 |
| Souterrain an underground stone-built passage and chamber, generally Early Medieval and often associated with ringforts as a defensive or storage feature | 45 |
| Graveyard a burial area associated with a church, in use from the medieval period onwards | 35 |
| Burnt mound a heap of fire-cracked stone, ash and charcoal, with no surviving trough, dated Bronze Age to early medieval | 32 |
Chronological distribution
The dated archaeological record for Barrymore spans from the Neolithic through to the Modern, with activity attested across 8 of 9 archaeological periods. Every period from earliest to latest is represented in the record — an unbroken sequence of dated activity across the full chronological span. Activity concentrates most heavily in the Early Medieval (270 sites, 32% of dated material), with the Iron Age forming a secondary peak (261 sites, 31%). A further 271 recorded sites (24% of the overall NMS register for the barony) carry no period attribution — appearing as 'Unknown' in the bar chart below. This typically reflects either records that pre-date the standardised period vocabulary or sites awaiting specialist dating review, rather than a genuine absence of chronological evidence.
Sample of recorded monuments
Show 25 sample monuments (of 1,120 total)
A representative sample of 25 recorded monuments drawn from the barony’s 1,120 total NMS entries. Sites within a recorded monument protection zone and rarer site types are prioritised so the list shows a meaningful cross-section rather than only the most common type. Each entry shows the official Sites and Monuments Record reference number and the description published by the National Monuments Service.
Mass-rock
Rock platform on E side of river Bride with rock cliff rising behind. White metal cross hangs suspended down cliff face. Plaque with inscription in both Irish and English reads 'Mass was said here in Penal times'.…
Rock platform on E side of river Bride with rock cliff rising behind. White metal cross hangs suspended down cliff face. Plaque with inscription in both Irish and English reads 'Mass was said here in Penal times'. Access to W is via iron and wooden bridge; to S path leads N from road.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Stoup (present location)
In SE quadrant of burial ground (CO043-01401-). Set into the ground is a small rectangular stone (0.3m x 0.28m) with a steep-sided bowl-shaped depression (diam. 0.23m; D 0.21m) cut into it (half-filled with rainwater).…
In SE quadrant of burial ground (CO043-01401-). Set into the ground is a small rectangular stone (0.3m x 0.28m) with a steep-sided bowl-shaped depression (diam. 0.23m; D 0.21m) cut into it (half-filled with rainwater). Lying on grund nearby is stone lid (missing a piece) which appears to fit over the bullaun. Two upright slabs (H c. 0.8m), one with a white cross painted on it stand immediately to S c. 1.2m apart; according to O'Donoghue (1914) they formed the door into an 'ancient church', the area behind these is now heavily overgrown. On N side modern holy statue is wooden shelter. O'Donoghue (ibid) records a story of bullauns removed by a woman who was 'forced by an unseen hand at night to restore it'.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Images provided by and copyright of Amanda Clarke 2016-2021 https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/
Date of upload/revision: 06 April 2022
Icehouse
To E of Kilshannig House (CO044-03301-), roofless stone-built octagonal structure (diam. 2.14m); E side collapsed. Door (W-facing) and window (SW-facing) with brick surrounds. Chamber (D c. 2m) under floor and chute in…
To E of Kilshannig House (CO044-03301-), roofless stone-built octagonal structure (diam. 2.14m); E side collapsed. Door (W-facing) and window (SW-facing) with brick surrounds. Chamber (D c. 2m) under floor and chute in N wall.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Religious house – Carmelite friars
On W side of Castlelyons village, ruins of Carmelite friary founded in 1309 by John de Barry (Gwynn and Hadcock 1988, 288). Consists of nave (int.: 19.5m E-W; 7.5m N-S), choir and chancel (int.: 16.5m E-W; 7.5m N-S),…
On W side of Castlelyons village, ruins of Carmelite friary founded in 1309 by John de Barry (Gwynn and Hadcock 1988, 288). Consists of nave (int.: 19.5m E-W; 7.5m N-S), choir and chancel (int.: 16.5m E-W; 7.5m N-S), separated by 3-storey tower (int.: 3.6m E-W; 7.5m N-S); E and W range of domestic buildings around cloister to S; S range entirely gone (Windele 1898, 61). Only part of chancel which stands above foundation level is NE corner. Ingoing only part of E window which survives, indicating eitherthat window was of unusual height and width or, more probably, that E window was multi-light, which is likely to be a 13th century feature. Nave walls stand to near full height but upper part of W gable gone. Central door in W wall has pointed arch over door; jambs and arch rebated in five plain orders, hood-moulding also rebated in three orders. Directly above is twin-light ogee-headed window. Blocked door near W end of N wall of nave.Two windows each in N and S walls. Piscina near E end of S wall; shallow recess covered by rounded arch opposite in N wall. Restored chest tombs in NE and SE corners. Pointed archway, with plain jambs, leads into area undertower, covered by groined vault of which only northern third survives. Spiral stone stairway rises full height of tower in NW corner. Only W and Swalls of 1st and 2nd floor compartments survive. At 1st floor level wide shallow recesses in both walls, with rounded arches, frame lintelled window embrasures. Central lintelled wi…
Barn
This barn is mentioned in the 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork – vol. 2 East & South (Power et al. 1994, 331) under the entry (no. 6093) for a building (CO045-006—-). The entry reads as follows: At road…
This barn is mentioned in the 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork – vol. 2 East & South (Power et al. 1994, 331) under the entry (no. 6093) for a building (CO045-006—-). The entry reads as follows: At road junction on S side of Castlelyons village, c. 300m SE of Castlelyons Castle (CO045-004—). Site now occupied by farmyard (38m N-S; 20m E-W), enclosed by high stone wall to W, N and E and by diagonal concrete wall and derelict 19th century house to S. Lower courses of stone wall are noticeably thicker and present wall appears to be rebuilding on earlier foundations. Otherwise no features in yard appear to predate late 18th century. Though later editions of OS 6-inch map show 'Barrymore Barn' to E of enclosure, on site now occupied by late 19th century Parochial House, 1842 OS 6-inch map shows it much closer to 'Stables' and both buildings may have been adjacent. These buildings were presumably associated with nearby castle, former seat of Earls of Barrymore (CO045-004—).
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Headstone
In St Nicholas' Catholic Church (CO045-051001-) in Bridebridge. Triple-arched top of headstone inserted over font at entrance bearing symbols of death: skull and crossbones over coffin, flanked by bell and hourglass;…
In St Nicholas' Catholic Church (CO045-051001-) in Bridebridge. Triple-arched top of headstone inserted over font at entrance bearing symbols of death: skull and crossbones over coffin, flanked by bell and hourglass; central arch inscribed CUMSITVITABREVIS DISCITO BENE MORI; side arches bear angels.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Castle – Anglo-Norman masonry castle
In gently rolling pasture; on low limestone outcrop. The building here was burnt in 1771, when it formed 'a large square building, with a court in the centre (Smith 1750, vol. 1, 157). This ruin was subsequently much…
In gently rolling pasture; on low limestone outcrop. The building here was burnt in 1771, when it formed 'a large square building, with a court in the centre (Smith 1750, vol. 1, 157). This ruin was subsequently much damaged by quarrying, so that it now survives in two sections: the N section contains remains of a 17th century wing (CO045-004—); whilst c. 20m to S,separated from latter section by abandoned quarry, are lower, more fragmentary remains built around a medieval core.
At SW corner of this latter section is rectangular structure (int. 5.4m N-S; 5.15m E-W); exterior wall face evident on S (L c. 10m; H c. 4m) and W (L c. 8.8m; H c. 4m) sides but otherwise most of external face buried behind rough sod-covered ground. Ground floor covered by plank-centred vault, S half fallen; interior filled with earth-covered mound of rubble. Only visible ope is in centre of S wall (int. wth 1.8m; ext. wth 1.2m; wall thickness 1.35m), exact nature unclear. 2.8m to E, at slightly higher level, are much eroded remains, undermined by quarrying on N side, which formed part of S wing of court. What survives are two bays, standing to two storeys, of S-facing wall. All opes enlarged to take sash windows when this formed part of S facade of court complex. Bay to W, at ground level, has opening square-set on inside (Wth 2.9m) and then splays towards outside; this forms S wall of a chamber (3.3m E-W) covered by rounded wicker-centred vault (axis N-S); vault clearly an insertion. N end of…
Cross-inscribed stone
In pasture, on an E-facing slope in a field known as the graveyard field and immediately outside the SW corner of a burial ground (CO045-146001-). A rectangular stone slab (H 0.63m; Wth 0.3m; T 0.06-0.08m) with roughly…
In pasture, on an E-facing slope in a field known as the graveyard field and immediately outside the SW corner of a burial ground (CO045-146001-). A rectangular stone slab (H 0.63m; Wth 0.3m; T 0.06-0.08m) with roughly cut-off corners leaning against a low stone field boundary. On the upper half of the stone is a simple Latin cross (H 0.18m; Wth 0.14m). The right arm of the cross has an expanded terminal while the left arm terminates at a natural curved groove or irregularity on the surface of the otherwise smooth stone. A socket (D c. 0.03m) on the top of the cross may be a later feature and its function is not certain.
The above description is derived from 'The Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 5' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2009).
Date of upload: 22 December 2009
Anomalous stone group
In pasture, at end of NE-facing slope. Depicted on 1842 OS 6-inch map as four standing stones, immediately E of NE corner of rectangular enclosure (CO052-03902-). Macalister (1945, 63, no. 59) claims, probably wrongly,…
In pasture, at end of NE-facing slope. Depicted on 1842 OS 6-inch map as four standing stones, immediately E of NE corner of rectangular enclosure (CO052-03902-). Macalister (1945, 63, no. 59) claims, probably wrongly, that one of stones is an ogham stone – see (CO052-03901-). Removed; no visible surface trace. Windele (in Macalister 1943, 63) described four stones, two of which were ogham inscribed (CO052-03901-; CO052-053—), within the rectangular enclosure; destroyed in the mid-nineteenth century. Possibly the same stones. (deValera and O Nualláin 1982, 44)
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Crucifixion plaque
On top of lintel-stone of holy well (CO052-022—). Rectangular stone slab (c. 0.6m x c. 0.5m) depicting crucifixion in relief. Small cross inscribed on figure by visitors to well. Similar cross on lintel stone.
The…
On top of lintel-stone of holy well (CO052-022—). Rectangular stone slab (c. 0.6m x c. 0.5m) depicting crucifixion in relief. Small cross inscribed on figure by visitors to well. Similar cross on lintel stone.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Image provided by and copyright of Amanda Clarke 2016-2022 https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/
Religious house – unclassified
In pasture, level field with no visible trace of small rectangular structure named 'Abbey (in ruins)' on 1842 OS 6-inch map. Power (1932, 181) saw 'some nondescript remains….but evidence is entirely wanting that they…
In pasture, level field with no visible trace of small rectangular structure named 'Abbey (in ruins)' on 1842 OS 6-inch map. Power (1932, 181) saw 'some nondescript remains….but evidence is entirely wanting that they are the remains of an abbey'; not listed by Gwynn and Hadcock.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Mound
In pasture. Roughly circular, grass-covered mound (H c. 10m; diam. c. 100m). Named Knockauncarragh and depicted as hachured circular mound (diam. c. 50m) on 1842 OS 6-inch map. Power (1923, 171) translates name to 'Cnoc…
In pasture. Roughly circular, grass-covered mound (H c. 10m; diam. c. 100m). Named Knockauncarragh and depicted as hachured circular mound (diam. c. 50m) on 1842 OS 6-inch map. Power (1923, 171) translates name to 'Cnoc an Chatharach' – 'Hill of the Cathair'.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Ringfort – cashel
In pasture, atop knoll. Shown on 1842 OS 6-inch map as circular enclosure (diam. c. 30m). Power (1917, 170) records a '"cathair" with souterrains', stating that 'all stones have been carted away leaving only the earthen…
In pasture, atop knoll. Shown on 1842 OS 6-inch map as circular enclosure (diam. c. 30m). Power (1917, 170) records a '"cathair" with souterrains', stating that 'all stones have been carted away leaving only the earthen core of the rampart'. McCarthy (1977, 338) notes that in 1976 'the stone rampart of the caher was practically erased'. According to local information, site finally levelled c. 1981; area distinguishable by copious amounts of stone. Souterrain (CO054-02002-) in interior. Levelled circular enclosure (CO054-02101-), souterrain (CO054-02102-) and standing stone (CO054-02103-) c. 70m to SE.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Cist
Named 'Cahergal' on 1842 and 1904 OS 6-inch maps. On top of a hill in commanding position. Area previously planted with conifers and replanted c. 1987. Hill-top partially enclosed by arc of upright stones (H 0.94-1.67m)…
Named 'Cahergal' on 1842 and 1904 OS 6-inch maps. On top of a hill in commanding position. Area previously planted with conifers and replanted c. 1987. Hill-top partially enclosed by arc of upright stones (H 0.94-1.67m) NW->SE; line of loose stones extends c. 4.7m S from W edge of arc. Power (1918, 229) suggests this is remains of retaining wall for cairn destroyed within his lifetime and 'Carn Geal' is correct name for site. He also records remains of square chamber or pit in centre. Locally known as "Giants Grave".
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Sweathouse
Built into natural slope on steep overgrown N bank of Butlerstown river. Mentioned by Power (1923, 204) as 'clochán-like structure, now very decayed….it was roofed on the beehive principal and was furnished with…
Built into natural slope on steep overgrown N bank of Butlerstown river. Mentioned by Power (1923, 204) as 'clochán-like structure, now very decayed….it was roofed on the beehive principal and was furnished with fireplace and chimney'. Remains of circular stone-built structure (int. H 1.6m; diam. 3.3m; wall thickness 0.63m); lintelled fireplace in W wall; break in wall to SE may be entrance. Only indication of corbelling is short section to N comprised of two courses of oversailing masonry.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Fish-pond
This pond is shown and named 'Old Fish Pond' on the 1842 OS 6-inch map in the townland of Brooklodge Upper (now known as Brooklodge townland). This fish-pond is referred to in the 'Archaeological Inventory of County…
This pond is shown and named 'Old Fish Pond' on the 1842 OS 6-inch map in the townland of Brooklodge Upper (now known as Brooklodge townland). This fish-pond is referred to in the 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork – vol. 2 East and South Cork' (1994, -209) under the entry (no. 5522) for an unclassified castle (CO064-055—-). The fish-pond is mentioned as follows: 'Immediately to E, 1842 map shows site of 'old fish pond'; also probably destroyed when new road constructed…'.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Hilltop enclosure
On top of a hill, in commanding position; land falls away steepy to S and E; extensive view to S. Circular area (75m N-S; 74.9m E-W) enclosed by bivallate earthen defences: inner bank (int. H 0.55m; ext. H 1.7m)…
On top of a hill, in commanding position; land falls away steepy to S and E; extensive view to S. Circular area (75m N-S; 74.9m E-W) enclosed by bivallate earthen defences: inner bank (int. H 0.55m; ext. H 1.7m) separated from outer bank (int. H 1.2m; ext. H 1.6m) by flattened U-shaped fosse; outer fosse (D 0.5m) evident all around but survives best SSW->NE. Entrance to NW. Interior slopes up to N; N end is summit of hill; numerous tree boles covered by sparce scrub vegetation. To SE scarp (H 1m; L c. 21m) runs from inner bank face in WNW direction, may be recent feature. On edge of coniferous plantation which skirts enclosure W->E. Unlikely to be hillfort as "the area enclosed falls well short of an average hillfort and bivallate defences are not typical of Irish hillforts (pers. comm. Dr. Barry Raftery).
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Gate lodge
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To…
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To access available information for research purposes please make an appointment in advance with the Archive Unit (open Fridays 10.00 am – 5.00 pm), Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, The Custom House, Dublin 1 D01W6XO or email nmarchive@chg.gov.ie.
Brickworks
Late 19th century complex; indicated on 1902 OS 6-inch map as network of buildings and pond, little of which remains. Range of 1-storey, 3-bay houses (long axis N-S) with 2-storey, 3-bay gabled house at S end; all brick…
Late 19th century complex; indicated on 1902 OS 6-inch map as network of buildings and pond, little of which remains. Range of 1-storey, 3-bay houses (long axis N-S) with 2-storey, 3-bay gabled house at S end; all brick built. Brick walls of other structures adjacent to S end. Further S is an overgrown E elevation of structure (H 2.5m) with three brick arched opes (H 0.6m; Wth 0.45m; D1m) at base. Pond to E also remains. Established in late 1850s; closed c. 1863 but reopened in 1837; finally closed c. 1914 (Cadogan 1988).
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Designed landscape – folly
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To…
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To access available information for research purposes please make an appointment in advance with the Archive Unit (open Fridays 10.00 am – 5.00 pm), Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, The Custom House, Dublin 1 D01W6XO or email nmarchive@chg.gov.ie.
Prehistoric site – lithic scatter
Find of flint arrowheads and waste found by landowner during ploughing.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery…
Find of flint arrowheads and waste found by landowner during ploughing.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Walled garden
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To…
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To access available information for research purposes please make an appointment in advance with the Archive Unit (open Fridays 10.00 am – 5.00 pm), Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, The Custom House, Dublin 1 D01W6XO or email nmarchive@chg.gov.ie.
Barracks
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To…
The Archaeological Survey of Ireland (ASI) is in the process of providing information on all monuments on The Historic Environment Viewer (HEV). Currently the information for this record has not been uploaded. To access available information for research purposes please make an appointment in advance with the Archive Unit (open Fridays 10.00 am – 5.00 pm), Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, The Custom House, Dublin 1 D01W6XO or email nmarchive@chg.gov.ie.
Ecclesiastical site
According to Hurley (1980, 63), Spike island is 'identifiable with the early ecclesiastical site of Inispicht' (see also Coleman 1893, 1-8; Lynch 1912,162-4; J.C.Q. 1936, 47-8; Bolster 1972, XLI), of which there are no…
According to Hurley (1980, 63), Spike island is 'identifiable with the early ecclesiastical site of Inispicht' (see also Coleman 1893, 1-8; Lynch 1912,162-4; J.C.Q. 1936, 47-8; Bolster 1972, XLI), of which there are no visible surface traces; map of 1625 appears to show ruined church on island (Hayes-McCoy 1964, plate 21) but none shown on Vallancey's map (MacCarthy ibid), nor does the latter show any remains of castle/tower house shown on 1587 map (Hayes-McCoy ibid., 25, plate 15).
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Ringfort – rath
In Fermoy golf course, on ESE-facing slope, on W end of Corrin ridge. Depicted on 1842 OS 6-inch map as sub-rectangular area planted with trees; marked on 1903 and 1935 OS 6-inch map as circular area (diam. c. 30m).…
In Fermoy golf course, on ESE-facing slope, on W end of Corrin ridge. Depicted on 1842 OS 6-inch map as sub-rectangular area planted with trees; marked on 1903 and 1935 OS 6-inch map as circular area (diam. c. 30m). Levelled; no visible surface trace. According to Windele (1897, 375) 'fort on Corrin ridge to the West looks down on Ballinahina, Barry's place'.
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Listed buildings
The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) is a state survey appraising buildings of architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social, or technical interest. Each surveyed structure receives a rating from International (the highest, for buildings of European importance) through National, Regional, Local, and Record-Only.
The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage records 686 listed buildings in Barrymore, placing it in the top 2% of ROI baronies for listed-building density. This includes 1 structure of International significance and 7 of National significance — buildings of the highest architectural and historic interest. The Republic holds 13 International-graded and 937 National-graded buildings in total, so this barony accounts for around 1% of the highest-tier national stock. Construction dates concentrate most heavily in the Victorian (1830-1900) period. The most-recorded building type is house (365 examples, 53% of the listed stock).
Terrain and environment
Mean elevation across the barony is 120m — the 74th percentile among 280 ROI baronies for elevation. This means it is in the top third of all baronies for elevation. This is a relatively elevated landscape by ROI standards. Elevation matters for heritage because higher-altitude baronies typically favour defensive monuments — ringforts and hilltop forts placed on prominent ground — while lowland baronies are more likely to carry the dense settlement and church networks of intensive agricultural landscapes. The barony reaches 427m at its highest point — a vertical span of more than 306m within its boundary, indicating significant topographic diversity. Mean slope is 4.1° — the 61st percentile among 280 ROI baronies for slope. This means it is in the upper half of all baronies for slope. Slope is a key control on both land use and archaeological preservation: steep ground resists ploughing and tends to preserve earthworks intact, while gentle slopes favour intensive cultivation that damages or destroys surface archaeology over time. The Topographic Wetness Index averages 10.5, the 34th percentile among 280 ROI baronies for wetness. This means it is in the lower half of all baronies for wetness. Drainage matters for heritage because poorly-drained ground preserves organic archaeology (wooden trackways, leather, textiles, and on rare occasions human remains) far better than free-draining soil; well-drained ground favours arable use but destroys organic material rapidly. The land-cover mosaic combines improved grassland (66%), woodland (20%), and arable farmland (9%), giving a mixed agricultural and semi-natural landscape.
Terrain measurements
Where this barony sits in the Republic of Ireland
Geology and preservation
Bedrock geology shapes the landscape long before any settlement begins — controlling soil drainage, agricultural potential, the survival of upstanding monuments, and the preservation of buried archaeology. The figures below come from the Geological Survey Ireland 1:100,000 bedrock map.
The bedrock underlying Barrymore is predominantly mudstone (61% of the barony by area), laid down during the Devonian period (83% by area, around 419 to 359 million years ago). Mudstone breaks down into heavy, often poorly-drained clay soils that historically limited intensive arable use. The lower density of ploughing tends to preserve subsurface archaeology better than in sandstone or limestone terrain, though waterlogging can be a factor for site survival. A substantial secondary geology of limestone (15%) and sandstone (13%) adds further variety to the underlying landscape. The single largest mapped unit is the Ballytrasna Formation (61% of the barony's bedrock).
Rock type composition
Largest mapped unit: Ballytrasna Formation (61% of the barony)
Placename evidence
Logainm records 90 heritage-diagnostic placenames for Barrymore, drawn from townland and civil-parish names across the barony. The dominant stratum is Early Christian ecclesiastical — cill-, teampall-, and domhnach-prefixed names that record the dense network of early church foundations established between the fifth and tenth centuries. The leading diagnostic roots are cill- (29 — church), ráth- (15 — earthen ringfort), and dún- (13 — hilltop fort or promontory fort). This is well above the ROI average of 30.7 heritage placenames per barony — around 2.9× the typical figure. The presence of multiple heritage strata side by side indicates layered occupation of the landscape across successive prehistoric and historic periods. A notable Norse signal is also visible: 5 placenames carry the gall- ('foreigner') element, marking areas of Hiberno-Norse contact or settlement. Logainm records 482 placenames for Barrymore (predominantly townland names). Of these, 90 (19%) carry one of the diagnostic Gaelic roots tracked above; the remainder draw on more generic landscape vocabulary that does not encode a heritage period.
Pre-Christian / Early Medieval Defensive
| Root | Count | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ráth- | 15 | earthen ringfort |
| dún- | 13 | hilltop or promontory fort |
| lios- | 7 | ringfort or enclosure |
| caiseal- | 5 | stone ringfort |
| cathair- | 2 | stone fort |
Early Christian Ecclesiastical
| Root | Count | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| cill- | 29 | church (early) |
| teampall- | 9 | church (later medieval) |
| domhnach- | 2 | pre-Patrician or earliest Patrician church |
| cillín- | 2 | unconsecrated burial ground |
| díseart- | 1 | hermitage |
| tobar- | 1 | holy well |
| gráinseach- | 1 | monastic farm / grange |
Burial, Ritual, and Norse-Contact
| Root | Count | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| gall- | 5 | foreigner — Norse settlement marker |
| sián- | 2 | fairy mound |
| carn- | 1 | cairn |
Other baronies in Cork
- Carbery East (west Division)
- Fermoy
- Bantry
- Kinalea
- Cork
- Ibane And Barryroe
- Duhallow
- Dunkerron South — Kerry
- Middlethird — Tipperary
- Clanwilliam — Tipperary
See all 280 baronies in the Republic of Ireland Heritage Tool.
Explore further
Grounding History: 10 Maps of Northern Ireland’s Past
If you’re interested in Irish heritage more widely, the companion report for Northern Ireland brings together the analysis of all 462 NI wards into one place through 10 high-quality maps — covering monument density, archaeological periods, placename heritage, terrain, wetland, and the historic landscape at first survey. Take a look.
About this profile
Click any section below to expand.
What is a barony?
A barony is a historic administrative unit in Ireland, broadly equivalent to an English hundred. The 280 baronies used here are from the OSi 2019 National Statutory Boundaries (generalised 20m), covering the 26 counties of the Republic of Ireland. Baronies derive from the Norman period, were formalised in the 17th century, and have not been redrawn for statistical purposes. They vary enormously in area, from compact urban baronies in Dublin to vast upland baronies in Connacht, and should not be compared by raw site count without accounting for area differences.
What counts as a site?
This profile combines three distinct heritage registers, each with its own definition of what constitutes a recordable site:
- Archaeological sites (NMS). The National Monuments Service Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) catalogues every known archaeological monument or site of archaeological interest in the Republic, from prehistoric burial mounds and ringforts to medieval churches and post-medieval defensive works. Inclusion does not require legal protection — only that the site has been identified, surveyed, and assessed as having archaeological value. A separate subset of these sites lies within a recorded protection zone, which gives them statutory protection under the National Monuments Acts.
- Listed buildings (NIAH). The National Inventory of Architectural Heritage records buildings of architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social, or technical interest. Each surveyed structure is appraised on a five-tier scale: International, National, Regional, Local, and Record-Only. The NIAH appraisal is informational rather than strictly statutory, but it underpins local-authority Record of Protected Structures (RPS) listings.
- Heritage placenames (Logainm). Logainm is the authoritative database of Irish placenames maintained by the Placenames Branch. This profile applies a heritage-diagnostic classifier to the Irish-language form of each townland name, flagging roots that signal defensive sites (ráth-, lios-, dún-, caiseal-, cathair-), ecclesiastical foundations (cill-, teampall-, domhnach-, mainistir-), prehistoric burial-ritual features (tuaim-, carn-, leaba-), or Norse-contact settlement (gall-). Townlands without one of these diagnostic roots are not flagged here — they may still carry historical significance, but that significance is not encoded in the name itself.
Editorial principles
The narrative sections of this profile follow several explicit principles:
- Evidential. Every claim about this barony’s heritage character is anchored in the underlying register data. Where a site count, a placename count, or a percentile rank is cited, it is computed from the source datasets at export time, not estimated.
- Comparative. Counts and metrics are reported alongside their percentile rank against the other 279 ROI baronies. A barony with 50 ringforts in absolute terms could be unusually high or unusually low depending on its size and regional context; percentile ranking removes that ambiguity.
- Transparent on limits. Where a register has known coverage gaps, survey biases, or data-quality issues that affect this barony’s figures, the profile flags them rather than presenting the numbers as definitive.
- No interpretation beyond what the data supports. The narrative does not speculate about historical events, social dynamics, or cultural meaning beyond what the recorded heritage and placename evidence directly attests.
Data caveats and limits
- NMS Sites and Monuments Record is the product of survey campaigns conducted at different intensities across different counties and decades. Some baronies have been surveyed more thoroughly than others, and absolute counts should be read in that light. Sites destroyed by development before survey are typically not represented; sites in heavily forested or upland terrain are sometimes under-recorded.
- NIAH coverage is broadly complete for the Republic of Ireland but the survey was conducted on a rolling county-by-county basis, and the most recent appraisal date varies. Buildings demolished or substantially altered after their original survey may still appear in the register; conversely, recent buildings of merit may not yet have been appraised.
- Logainm classification applies a deliberately conservative pattern-matching approach to the Irish-language townland forms. The classifier prioritises true positives over recall: a townland may carry a heritage signal that the classifier doesn’t recognise, particularly where the diagnostic root has been heavily anglicised or where the townland name draws on a less common term. The 60,000+ townland records and ~9,800 classified placenames give a substantial signal at barony scale, but individual townland names should be checked against Logainm directly for definitive interpretation.
- Period attribution. The chronological distribution reflects only those NMS sites that carry a recognised period attribution in the source data. Sites listed as “Unknown” period are excluded from the dated subset.
- Boundary changes. Some baronies have undergone minor boundary adjustments since their 19th-century definition; the OSi 2019 generalised boundaries used here are the current statutory definition and may differ slightly from historical maps in border areas.
- Bedrock geology is mapped at 1:100,000 scale, which means local variation within a barony — small pockets of different rock type, mineral veins, alluvium overlying bedrock — is generalised. The dominant-system and rocktype figures are area-weighted, so a barony reading “70% Carboniferous limestone” may still contain small but archaeologically important pockets of older or younger rock. Around 3% of GSI polygons do not match the lexicon and contribute no rocktype or system attribution.
Data sources
- National Monuments Service — Sites and Monuments Record (SMR) https://data.gov.ie/dataset/national-monuments-service-archaeological-survey-of-ireland
- National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) https://data.gov.ie/dataset/national-inventory-of-architectural-heritage-niah-national-dataset
- Logainm — Placenames Database of Ireland https://www.logainm.ie/
- Ordnance Survey Ireland — National Statutory Barony Boundaries 2019 https://data-osi.opendata.arcgis.com/
- EURODEM — European Digital Elevation Model https://www.mapsforeurope.org/datasets/euro-dem
- ESA WorldCover https://esa-worldcover.org/en
- Geological Survey Ireland — 1:100,000 Bedrock Geology https://www.gsi.ie/en-ie/data-and-maps/Pages/Bedrock.aspx
Explore more: Search any of the 280 ROI baronies, browse by historical province, or read the methodology and data sources for the full Republic of Ireland Heritage Tool.