Mayo -
22
Thornhill
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Site/Artefact
Mound
Type
Burial Mound
Site
Number
SMR Mayo 087 00011
National Grid
Reference
089190 East
282860 North
Map (
1:50000)
Ordnance Survey Ireland,
Discovery Series No 31
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Description
Large burial mounds of earth or stone,
or a combination of both, are thought to have their
origin in the Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age.
Those constructed of earth are referred to as
tumuli whilst those mounds, which are formed of
stones, are known as cairns. Some of the mounds in
this area are used as part of the modern pilgrimage
on the mountain, but were probably associated with
pagan ritual or worship.
The largest mound in the area of Croagh Patrick
is the Thornhill mound. This impressive almost
circular tumulus has an overall diameter of 18m,
while the flat top is 9m across. A cruciform pillar
of stone and mortar, containing a millstone was
constructed on this flat area in 1824 to celebrate
Catholic emancipation.
Excavation Details
N/A
Access/Ownership
Private
References
- Morahan, L. 2001, Croagh Patrick, Co. Mayo,
archaeology, landscape and people, Westport
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Other Mayo Sites and
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