Scheduled MonumentsNorthern IrelandDownPlatform rath with counterscarp bank
E.CHRIST. · RATH

Platform rath with counterscarp bank

Down, Northern Ireland
NISMR MonID 7209
Period
E.CHRIST.
Site type
RATH
Nation
Northern Ireland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

Platform rath with counterscarp bank is an early medieval Irish ringfort located in County Down, Northern Ireland. The site consists of a raised central platform surrounded by a bank-and-ditch defence system, with the counterscarp bank representing an outer defensive element typical of more elaborate rath constructions. Dating to the early Christian period, likely between the fifth and twelfth centuries, this monument represents the domestic and administrative centre of an Irish secular elite household. The platform rath form suggests occupation during the later phases of ringfort use in Ireland, when such sites continued to serve as territorial markers and fortified residences for local lords and their families.

Platform rath with counterscarp bank is a scheduled monument protected by Department for Communities NI under reference 7209. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Platform rath with counterscarp bank?

Platform rath with counterscarp bank is an early medieval Irish ringfort located in County Down, Northern Ireland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR) under reference 7209.

What period does Platform rath with counterscarp bank date from?

Platform rath with counterscarp bank 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 Platform rath with counterscarp bank?

Platform rath with counterscarp bank 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 7209.

What other scheduled monuments are near Platform rath with counterscarp bank?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including The ha', the haw. c17th house (2.3 km), Counterscarp rath (3.8 km), Magheradrool fort. counterscarp rath (4.4 km).

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