Rathgall Hillfort (the White Fort), is an archaeological site northwest of the town of Shillelagh. Dating from the Bronze Age, it consists of three concentric stone ramparts, with another circular fortified wall from the medieval period in the center. Built on a hill, the site has an exceptional charm!
Rathgall Hillfort is quite impressive: set on a hill, it consists of several circular defensive enclosures, whose purposes remain mysterious to this day.
Excavations carried out by Barry Raftery in the 1970s unearthed numerous prehistoric objects, including ceramics, potsherds, glass beads and weapons. Burials were also discovered on the site, showing that the enclosure was also used for funerary rituals.
The site is magnificent, and accessible free of charge. A number of explanatory panels explain the nature of these walls and how they were built.
Rathgall Hillfort also has a rich folk history. A source of legends, the site is said to be the haunt of fairies and is also considered a sacred place of pilgrimage for childless couples.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
north-west of Shillelagh, County Wicklow (County Wicklow) - Republic of Ireland
52.802222, -6.663056
45 minutes
Here are a few useful places to stay so you can extend your trip and stay close to the sights you want to visit.
