- Results
A large number of sites of the late prehistoric period have now been identified and a model of the settlement patterns in this period can be put forward. This model suggests a four-tier hierarchy of occupation sites:
- substantial sub-regional centres represented by the larger hillforts
- lesser local foci in the form of smaller hillforts
- smaller hilltop enclosures
- enclosed habitations
This patterning is supported by the distribution of funerary and ceremonial sites, including places used for the ritual deposition of hoards and single artefacts. The artefacts recovered must be viewed not just objects in isolation but as an important part of the wider Late Bronze Age landscape. Assessment of this patterning has been carried out in a number of areas and a preliminary evaluation has been published for the Mooghaun area.
The work at Mooghaun hillfort provides, for the first time, significant settlement evidence for the later prehistoric period. A very substantial area was utilised and this clearly demonstrates the presence of a considerable population and a strong sense of community. Perhaps such a site could have been the homestead of the prominent person or family that owned the objects that constitute the Mooghaun hoard. The hoard could have been deposited for spiritual reasons, such as the placation of deities, but it is probable that the event had social and political aspects too. The public demonstration of wealth involved in depositing the gold would have strengthened the position of the members of the elite who deposited it as well as enhancing the reputation of the community that they represented. In the same way several purposes may be represented by the deposits of material in the bog of Cullen and the lake at Lough Gur which appear to be many single offerings rather than the deposition of a large collection.
The overall evidence shows that the emergence of an important Late Bronze Age cultural province in North Munster. This is characterised by similarity in settlement and social organisation, as well as common traditions in high status objects and ritual customs. Much of these developments have their origins in the gradual developments in earlier prehistory within the region itself. Some aspects of the distinctive character of the area, however, owe much to stimulus from outside the region: contact and perhaps trade with other core areas in Late Bronze Age Ireland, such as the midlands and the north-east, are evident as are wider influences most evidently from along the Atlantic seaboard of Europe.
The final reports were published in 2005 (see publications)