Killaclohane Portal Tomb is one of Ireland’s oldest known megalithic structures, dating to approximately 3800 BC. It is located near Milltown in County Kerry, and it represents an important example of Neolithic funerary architecture.
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Description and Structure
The tomb consists of two upright stones, or “portal stones,” which support a horizontal capstone. This arrangement forms the entrance to a small chamber. The chamber was originally covered with an earthen mound or cairn, much of which has eroded over time. Portal tombs like Killaclohane served as communal burial sites, reflecting early farming societies’ complex social and spiritual practices.
Archaeological Significance
In 2015, archaeologists conducted an excavation at Killaclohane. They uncovered human bone fragments and other artifacts, including pottery sherds. Radiocarbon dating revealed the bones were from the Neolithic period, approximately 3800 BC. This made Killaclohane one of the earliest dated burial sites in Ireland.
The excavation also revealed that the tomb had been reused during the Bronze Age, demonstrating its enduring cultural importance. Bronze Age pottery and tools found at the site support this conclusion.
Historical Context
Killaclohane Portal Tomb provides evidence of early farming communities in Ireland. These societies introduced domesticated crops and livestock and established permanent settlements. Portal tombs like Killaclohane are part of a broader tradition of megalithic construction across Ireland, reflecting shared beliefs about death and the afterlife.
Preservation and Public Access
Killaclohane Portal Tomb underwent restoration following the 2015 excavation. Specialists stabilized the structure and cleared vegetation. Today, visitors can access the site to learn about its history. It is part of Ireland’s National Monuments inventory, highlighting its importance as a cultural heritage site.
Conclusion
Killaclohane Portal Tomb offers valuable insights into Ireland’s Neolithic period. Its construction, use, and eventual reuse demonstrate the evolution of human settlement and ritual practices. Archaeological studies have deepened our understanding of the early societies that shaped the island’s history. This tomb remains a critical site for studying Ireland’s ancient past.
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