Archaeological investigations at the 'Rath' inJulianstown

The 'Rath' at Sonairte in Julianstown which has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike for many years is currently undergoing archaeological investigations to determine what exactly it is.

Although its known as ‘The Rath’, it may or may not have been a Rath or fort, according to archaeologist Finola O'Carroll, who explains that they do know that it dates back to the early Christian/Iron Age.

“It was seriously damaged both by 18th and 19th century quarrying,” she says.

“Only a small part of its double ditch surround remains and the only find we have from the period is a single blue glass bead. However, this is enough to tell us that the site dates from the late Iron Age/early Christian period when this sort of structure surrounded a hilltop farmstead, partly for defence.”

She said the Rath has never been ecavated.

“Another structure which is due east on lower ground was investigated when the road was done and Iron Age burials were found there and there had been intense activity in that area from the bronze to medieval age.”

She explains that a base survey is taking place in a 3km area surrounding Sonairte including a summary of the results of the nearby sites that have been excavated.

“We are doing a geophysical survey of the adjacent area to the east.

“We are gathering all the information we can in order to understand what it might be and it will inform any future management plan for the area. She explained that local community historian Brendan Matthews is also involved.

Ms Carroll said the monument is on a prominent ridge over the Nanny with great views of the surrounding area.

“There was intense settlement of the coastline from the Boyne , to the Nanny and the Delvin rivers.”

Dr Kim O'Reilly chair of the Board of Directors of Sonairte said she is delighted that the investigations are taking place.

“We would love to know what it is and what are ancestors were doing.

“I would love to see it excavated if the funding was in place,” she said.

The structure may have offered protection for cattle from marauding wolves in winter and the vegetable garden from marauding cattle in summer.

In the 9th century it must have provided some protection for the local population against raiding Vikings, but it could be that it also provided a target for them.

Sonairte is an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness and sustainable living established in 1988 by members of the local community and concerned environmentalists to promote environmental awareness and education. It is a certified organic food producer.