Beltany Stone Circle

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This description of a raised mound of earth and stone, covering ‘sepulchral graves’ suggests that Beltany may be the denuded remains of a large megalithic tomb, particularly a passage tomb, rather than a stone circle. This is supported by its landscape setting, with its prominence being similar to other passage tombs. Indeed, there are views across to a passage tomb cemetery at Kilmonaster and another possible tomb at Croaghan Hill.

If Beltany Stone Circle was indeed such a tomb, then the ring of stones would represent the stone kerb around the base of a tomb rather than it being a stone circle. However, it is rather strange that local farmers would largely remove the cairn and mound and leave such useful stone behind. It is not impossible however, and folklore and practicalities may have both played a role if this was indeed the case.

Irish archaeology and heritage gifts
Aerial view of Beltany Stone Circle Donegal

Aerial view of Beltany Stone Circle and its landscape setting • Donegal

The meaning of Beltany

The largest stone in the ring of Beltany Stone Circle Tops Donegal

The largest of the stones • Beltany Stone Circle

The largest stone in the ring of Beltany Stone Circle Tops Donegal

The largest of the stones • Beltany Stone Circle

Upper left: outlying stone at Beltany • Lower left: part of the circle at the south • Right: the path to the monument

Top: outlying stone at Beltany • Middle: the path to the monument • Bottom: part of the circle at the south

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