View MapView Map
HomeDestinationsWicklowShillelaghRathgall Stone Fort
Rathgall Stone Fort
Shillelagh, Co. Wicklow
Cloudy days
Rathgall Stone Fort is an extensive hillside fortification with 8th century outer walls and later medieval inner walls, in Tullow County Carlow.

Rathgall Stone Fort, in Tullow County Carlow, is a hillside fortification with 8th century outer walls and later medieval inner walls. Evidence from excavations carried out at Rathgall suggests that hill forts were constructed from the late Bronze Age (800 BC) into the Iron Age and continued to be used into post medieval times. On excavation in 1969 Rathgall turned out to be the first Later Bronze Age Workshop located in Ireland and more than 400 clay moulds were also found there. Evidence of a house was discovered in the inner stone circle with the second and third ramparts forming the main defensive walls.

Rathgall was a huge workshop where spears, swords and shields were fashioned. During the excavations in 1969 more than four hundred fragments of clay moulds were found. A further two or three hundred were discovered away from the main workshop, showing the considerable extent of the bronze-working area. Excavations revealed that an important wealthy family or small community lived on the hilltop.

Contact details
Rath East, Coolkenno, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
More to discover
Free things to doMangan's Loop

Showcasing that famed County Wicklow scenery and idyllic views over the pretty market town of Tinahely, this moderate 5km loop crosses country lanes, lush forest and stunning open mountain slopes.

Free things to doSt Kevins Way - Pilgrim Path

Follow in the footsteps of a saint on this rewarding, superbly scenic walking trail through the heart of Wicklow, the Garden of Ireland. Saint Kevin’s Way, also known as the Pilgrim’s Path, is a peaceful 30km trail that’s perfect for the moderately fit walker, taking around a day to complete.

Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.