Mooghaun Hill Fort , County Clare

Welcome to Mooghaun Hill Fort, a remarkable establishment and a must-visit tourist attraction in Mooghaun South, Co. Clare, Ireland. This ancient fortification has become easily accessible in recent years, thanks to the efforts of The Forest and Wildlife Service of the Dept. of Forestry and Fisheries. They have provided convenient parking facilities, picnic tables, and clear direction signs leading to the summit, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all.

Mooghaun Hill Fort has gained a well-deserved reputation as one of the most impressive prehistoric fortifications in the country. However, it is also widely recognized for an extraordinary event that took place nearby in March of 1854. During the construction of the railway line from Limerick to Ennis, a group of workmen stumbled upon a treasure trove of elaborate gold ornaments. This discovery, described by renowned antiquary Thomas J. Westropp as one of the most sensational in Irish archaeology, was nothing short of extraordinary.

The laborers, while digging near the railway bridge in Moghane North, accidentally uncovered a box-like structure made of rough stones. To their astonishment, it contained a wealth of precious gold artifacts. Among the findings were armlets with cup-ends, intricate gorgets, circular fibulae, large bracelets with cup-shaped hollowed ends, a magnificent gold crown with ten points, a precious gold ring, a splendid crescent collar of sheet gold, and even ingots of the purest gold. These objects, upon further study, were determined to belong to the latter period of the Bronze Age, serving as personal adornments for their ancient owners.

Unfortunately, the excitement and frenzy surrounding this extraordinary discovery led to the sale of many of these priceless artifacts for trifling sums. Additionally, several pieces were melted down for their metal value. Had the Clare find been preserved in its entirety, it would have constituted the largest collection of gold objects ever unearthed in Europe. However, casts of several objects were made at the time and have been diligently preserved in the esteemed Royal Irish Academy.

Mooghaun Hill Fort stands as a testament to the rich history and archaeological significance of Ireland. Its stunning location, combined with the fascinating tale of the gold discovery, makes it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and curious visitors alike. Come and explore this ancient monument, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Mooghaun, and witness the remnants of a remarkable era in Ireland's past.