E.CHRIST. · RATH

Counterscarp rath

Ballymena, Northern Ireland
NISMR MonID 2688
Period
E.CHRIST.
Site type
RATH
Nation
Northern Ireland
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR)

Overview

History & significance

Counterscarp rath is a prehistoric earthwork located near Ballymena in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The monument consists of a circular or oval enclosure defined by a ditch and internal bank, characteristic of Early Christian period raths that served as defended domestic and pastoral settlements. Such raths were typically occupied from the Early Christian period onwards and functioned as the residences of farming families or small élite groups, with the earthwork providing protection for livestock and inhabitants. The Counterscarp rath represents the type of modest but strategically positioned settlement that was widespread across Ireland during the medieval period.

Counterscarp rath is a scheduled monument protected by Department for Communities NI under reference 2688. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Counterscarp rath?

Counterscarp rath is a prehistoric earthwork located near Ballymena in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR) under reference 2688.

What period does Counterscarp rath date from?

Counterscarp rath dates from the e.christ. period, and is classified as a rath. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Counterscarp rath?

Counterscarp rath is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Ni. The official designation reference is 2688.

What other scheduled monuments are near Counterscarp rath?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Tardree stone. standing stone (7.8 km), Giants grave. court tomb (8 km), Court tomb (8.2 km).

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