N Munster Antiq J 11

S 008697. Recent work has confirmed the existence of hillforts in Ireland, and one newly discovered example is described here. About forty hillforts are now known, in three main classes: I, simple univallate (about half the total number); II, more complex forts with two or more widely spaced ramparts; III, inland promontory forts. A few forts fall outside this classification. The map of Class I forts shows a mainly easterly distribution, from Antrim to Kilkenny, but within the class there is much variation of form, size, siting and method of construction. Only one hillfort has been usefully dug so far, though several more are currently under excavation: Freestone Hill (Kilkenny) produced mid-4th century material with Roman connections, but this date is still within the Irish EIA. The Garrangrena example, recognised by study of OS maps, encloses five acres, is roughly circular, univallate, and lies at 900ft above OD. Its bank, thickly overgrown, appears to be of drystone walling. The entrance is not identifiable and no hut-sites are visible.