The Rock of Dunamase
At a Glance
County Laois
OS Map 55
OS Coordinate S 530 982

The Rock of Dunamase, Co. Laois

Location: From Portlaoise, take N 80 east. Cross over M7 and take the first left, approximately five kilometers from Portloise. If you miss this turn, pass the farm track and take the 2nd left. Either of these roads will take you to the same crossroads at the base of the Rock. Park in front of the mid 19th century Trinity Church or in the widening at the entrance to the site across theroad. Interpretive sign is at the entrance stile. Free access. Ongoing archaeological/conservation works prohibit access to some areas atop this hill.

Dimensions:

Features:

Comments:The information board was extremely helpful in making sense of this complex, as it is in a very ruinous state. The height looks intimidating, but the trek up isn't as bad as it looks and the view from the top is spectacular.

History: Dunamase originated as Dun Masc, an Early Christian dun. Its first and only mention in the annals is for the year 843/4 when it was plundered by the Vikings and the abbot of Terryglass who was killed in the raid. There have been no finds at this time to suggest that the site was occupied in Prehistoric times.

Other Items of Interest:

  © 2005 F.J. & K.D. Schorr - All rights reserved.