Historic Environment

Ballywee Early Christian Settlement

(near) Ballywee Souterrains
Ballywee Road
Ballyclare
Antrim
BT39 0DH

Contact

Phone:
028 9082 3207
Email:

Additional information

Open to the public:

No

Grid reference:
J2185089870
SM number:
ANT 050:036

About Ballywee Early Christian Settlement

This is an unusually well-preserved secular settlement, dating to the Early Christian period. It is a variation on more familiar raths and cashels so common in Co. Antrim. A complex settlement, it was excavated by C.J. Lynn in 1974 and is now preserved in State Care. Nine Early Christian period structures were excavated including a rectangular house with a hearth, attached souterrain and outhouse. Two other souterrains, another outbuilding and traces of further buildings were also located. The three souterrains suggest that security was a consideration for the presumed prosperous society dwelling here. A spring-fed stream ran down the middle of the enclosure.

Other historic places you can visit:

Ballywee Early Christian Settlement
Back to top