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.

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