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Visiting Dún Beag Fort
Just 15 minutes from the popular town of Dingle on the spectacular Slea Head drive lies an Iron Age Fort called Dún Beag.
A site of great archaeological importance
Dramatically set on a sheer cliff overlooking Dingle Bay this promontory fort is one the a few remaining in Ireland and dates to 580 BC. A site of great archaeological importance, excavations have shown that the fort was primarily occupied between the 8th and 11th centuries AD, when it was defended by a series of ditches and earthen banks as well as a substantial stonewall.
The interior of the fort contains the remains of a large stone-built house (Beehive / Clochán), as well as a souterrain. It is believed that the fort was home to a local lord or noble, who ruled the surrounding village of Fahan from the safety of this well defended but highly exposed Fortress.
Enjoy views of the fort
Through a short audio-visual presentation, learn about the history of this archaeological treasure and understand what life was like for people living on the peninsula during this time. Due to significant cliff erosion on the western edge of Dún Beag the fort now sits perilously close to a soft cliff edge.
Visitors can safely enjoy views of the fort but are not permitted to enter for safety reasons. Refuel with a stop at the Stonehouse Cáfe and Restaurant with its one-of-a-kind stone roof, connecting it architecturally to the rich archaeology of this village. Enjoy fresh, traditional Irish cuisine at this beautiful family run café and restaurant.
Highlights of the tour
- Dún Beag Fort | Iron Age Promontory Fort | 580BC | large stone-built house (Clochán) |Souterrain
- The Dingle Peninsula | Slea Head Drive | The Spectacular Wild Atlantic coastline| Along The Dingle Hiking Way
- Short 12 Min Cinematic Historical Film | History of Dún Beag Fort | Re-enacts the life of Iron Age Man
- Languages | Audio visual available in English, Irish, French, German, Spanish and Italian
- History Of Other Archaeological Sites | Learn about other archaeological sites in the area
- Safe View of Dún Beag Fort | Due to cliff erosion a safe walkway is now open down around the Fort
- Quaint Artisan Craft & Gift Shop | Authentic and locally made art | Irish souvenirs and gifts
- Stonehouse Café & Restaurant | One-of-a-Kind Stone Roof Building | Traditional Irish Food | Cosy Turf Fires
- Stunning Cliff & Sea Views | Views of Skellig & Blasket Islands | Fort built on a sheer cliff edge
- Rest Assured | Enjoy beautiful views while staying safe | Covid-19 Safety Charter