Scheduled MonumentsNorthern IrelandAntrimThe holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone
PREHISTORIC · HOLED STONE

The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone

Antrim, Northern Ireland
NISMR MonID 3056
Period
PREHISTORIC
Site type
HOLED STONE
Nation
Northern Ireland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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

Overview

History & significance

The Holestone, the Doagh Stone, is a prehistoric holed stone located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. Holed stones of this type are typically attributed to the Neolithic or Bronze Age periods, though precise dating remains difficult without archaeological excavation. The monument is distinguished by a naturally or deliberately enlarged perforation through the stone, a characteristic feature that has prompted various interpretations regarding its ceremonial, ritual, or practical function in prehistoric communities. Such stones have been variously associated with healing properties, ceremonial practices, or boundary marking in the archaeological understanding of prehistoric settlement patterns in Ulster.

The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone is a scheduled monument protected by Department for Communities NI under reference 3056. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone?

The Holestone, the Doagh Stone, is a prehistoric holed stone located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by DfC Northern Ireland (NISMR) under reference 3056.

What period does The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone date from?

The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone dates from the prehistoric period, and is classified as a holed stone. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across the UK.

Who is responsible for protecting The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone?

The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone 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 3056.

What other scheduled monuments are near The holestone, the doagh stone. holed stone?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Barrow (5.4 km), Kilmakee stone circle. cairn ('stone circle') (6.4 km), Mound - raised rath? (6.6 km).

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