Scheduled MonumentsNorthern IrelandLisburnPair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex)
E.CHRIST. · RATH PAIR

Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex)

Lisburn, Northern Ireland
NISMR MonID 4655
Period
E.CHRIST.
Site type
RATH PAIR
Nation
Northern Ireland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

A Pair of counterscarp raths is a prehistoric earthwork monument located near Lisburn in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. These raths, which form part of a larger rath complex, consist of two circular or sub-circular fortified enclosures characteristic of Iron Age settlement patterns in Ireland, typically dating to the later prehistoric period. The counterscarp configuration, involving outer defensive banks positioned opposite the main ramparts, indicates a sophisticated approach to fortification design intended to enhance defensive capability. This monument exemplifies the settlement archaeology of pre-Christian Ulster and contributes to understanding of Iron Age social hierarchy and territorial organisation in the region.

Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex) is a scheduled monument protected by Department for Communities NI under reference 4655. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex)?

A Pair of counterscarp raths is a prehistoric earthwork monument located near Lisburn in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR) under reference 4655.

What period does Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex) date from?

Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex) dates from the e.christ. period, and is classified as a rath pair. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex)?

Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex) 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 4655.

What other scheduled monuments are near Pair of counterscarp raths (part of rath complex)?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Earthwork enclosure (4.9 km), Castle robin. c17th fortified house built near motte & bailey (7.2 km), Counterscarp rath (7.5 km).

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