E.CHRIST. · RATH

Counterscarp rath

Larne, Northern Ireland
NISMR MonID 3153
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 an Early Christian ecclesiastical enclosure situated in the parish of Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The monument comprises a circular or near-circular earthwork comprising a bank and ditch, characteristic of the rath class of monuments that served both defensive and settlement purposes during the early medieval period. As an ecclesiastical rath, the site likely functioned as a monastic or religious community centre during the Early Christian period, when such enclosed settlements were prevalent throughout Ireland. The physical remains, protected as a scheduled historic monument under the Historic Environment Division, preserve evidence of early medieval settlement and religious activity in the Larne area.

Counterscarp rath is a scheduled monument protected by Department for Communities NI under reference 3153. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Counterscarp rath?

Counterscarp rath is an Early Christian ecclesiastical enclosure situated in the parish of Larne, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR) under reference 3153.

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 3153.

What other scheduled monuments are near Counterscarp rath?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Adam corry, ballycor. medieval church & graveyard (4.2 km), Raised rath (5.1 km), Raised rath (6.4 km).

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