Proposed seven-site Kilmovee heritage trail

A seven-site heritage trail is proposed for Kilmovee, which has a wealth of archaeological sites and monuments spanning 6,000 years.

A report on the trail prepared by Michael Gibbons, MIAI, was officially launched on Friday in Kilmovee Community Centre.

The trail will be signposted and accessible on foot, by bicycle or car, similar to the Clew Bay Heritage Trail in west Mayo. It will commence at Cois Tine, Kilmovee Heritage Centre, and follow a defined route.

Evidence of the first settlers, around 4,000 BC, can be seen at the megalithic court tomb in Carriwnlacka. Christian activity is represented at the Killeeeikeen monastic site, adjacent to which is as very rare triple bullaun stone. Other important monuments include the Ogham Stone at Rusheens West and the impressive cashel (stone fort) in Kilcashel.

Launching the report, the cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Blackie Gavin, paid tribute to all involved in the project, including the local landowners on whose property the sites are located – Martin Feeney, Michael Costello, Johnny Duffy and Tess and Eugene Regan – for their support.

* More on the story in Tuesday's print edition