A former royal residence

West Cork holds a wealth of historical sites of unique archaeological value like this fort. It is estimated that up to 50,000 ring forts were built in Ireland to provide safety for small communities and to safeguard livestock from raiding parties between 600 BC and 1000 AD.  Cahirvagliar Fort stands out from the rest for its sheer size and its impressive gateway into the fort which is totally unique in Ireland. It has been suggested that because of the size of the lintel and the surrounding stonework, this fort may have been one of the royal residences of the Cineál Laoighaire. It is also believed that Brian Boru was held hostage here for 8 years when he was a young boy.