Crannóg

A crannóg is a lake dwelling built on an artificially made island and is a perfect example of the ingenuity of the early inhabitants of Ireland who adapted their dwellings to suit local conditions. The base was formed by piling alternate layers of brush wood, peat, stones and straw on top of a log base until eventually the whole mass rose above the water surface. The whole structure was fenced around with timbers and huts were then built within. Local chieftains may have been the most likely inhabitants. Boats were the chief means of transport.

Remains of Crannóg Crannóg - Sketch

Crannógs were used for quite a long period of time, from the late Bronze age, about 1200 B.C. right through to the early 17th century. One can see the site of one of these marvellous structures in the eastern half of Kiltullagh Lake approximately four miles from Glenamaddy. This crannóg consists of a subcircular island measuring 42m north south by 26m east west and rising 1 .5m above the present water level. It is built in about 16m of water and is indeed a tribute to the skill of the lake dwellers of old.

Picture of Kiltullagh Lake on which the remains of the crannóg are visible (top left)

Drawing of what the crannóg would have looked like (top right)

Model of Killtullagh crannóg visible in Glenamaddy Town Hall (right)