A hillfort in County Wicklow, Ireland, has been identified as the largest nucleated settlement discovered to date in prehistoric Ireland and Britain. Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast believe the site, known as Brusselstown Ring, may also be Ireland’s earliest proto-town.
A Window into Ireland’s Deep Past
The discovery challenges existing understandings of early settlement patterns on the island. Brusselstown Ring is thought to be approximately two millennia older than previously identified Viking towns, which were once considered Ireland’s first urban settlements.
The site, located near Baltinglass, comprises a complex of enclosures. Recent study, combining existing archaeological data with new excavations, has revealed evidence of extensive habitation. Terrestrial surveys detected 288 potential hut sites, while aerial surveys from 2017 and 2022 identified over 600 topographical anomalies suggestive of prehistoric house platforms.
Researchers have located 98 potential roundhouse footprints within the inner enclosure, with a possible additional 509 between the inner and outer enclosing elements. Radiocarbon dating indicates occupation during the Late Bronze Age (c1210-780 BC), with continued use extending into the Early Iron Age (c750-400 BC).
Significance of the Findings
Dr. Dirk Brandherm of Queen’s University argues that even a conservative estimate – assuming not all anomalies represent houses – still positions Brusselstown Ring as the largest known nucleated prehistoric settlement in Ireland and Britain. He noted that few other sites contain more than a few dozen roundhouse footprints, and even fewer are enclosed.
Further investigation revealed a boat-shaped topographical anomaly that may have functioned as a water cistern, a feature consistent with similar structures found in Iron and Bronze Age Europe. Fieldwork at the site is ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “nucleated settlement”?
A nucleated settlement is one where houses are clustered together, rather than being spread out across the landscape. Brusselstown Ring’s concentration of house platforms defines it as a nucleated settlement.
How was the site identified?
The identification of Brusselstown Ring as a significant site involved examining existing archaeological data, conducting new excavations, and utilizing both terrestrial and aerial surveys to detect potential house platforms.
What is the timeframe for occupation at Brusselstown Ring?
Radiocarbon dating suggests occupation at Brusselstown Ring began during the Late Bronze Age (c1210-780 BC) and continued, with possible reuse of platforms, into the Early Iron Age (c750-400 BC).
What further discoveries might be made at Brusselstown Ring, and how will this knowledge shape our understanding of prehistoric Ireland?
