ringfortress

A ringfort is a type of historic settlement enclosed by a circular rampart and ditch. These structures are primarily found in Ireland and were common from the early medieval period, roughly 500 AD to 1000 AD, though some continued to be occupied and modified beyond this time. Ringforts were typically the residences of farmers or chieftains and their families, rather than large-scale defensive fortifications.

The characteristic feature of a ringfort is its earthwork enclosure, which could consist of a single bank and ditch (a univallate ringfort) or multiple concentric banks and ditches (a multivallate ringfort). Within this enclosure, there would have been a number of buildings, often made of timber or stone, which would have housed the inhabitants, livestock, and stored goods. Some ringforts also contained a souterrain, an artificial underground passage or chamber used for storage or shelter.

The precise function of ringforts varied. While their enclosed nature offered some protection, they were not primarily designed to withstand a prolonged siege. Instead, they likely served as a symbol of status and a secure, defensible homestead against opportunistic raids. The size and complexity of a ringfort could indicate the wealth and influence of its owner. Today, many ringforts survive as earthwork remains, often visible as circular crop marks from the air or as subtle undulations in the landscape.