Take a journey back in time on this historic heritage trail in West Cork
The Coppeen Heritage Trail runs from the west at Beal Na Blá, through Coppeen and the surrounding areas and to the the site of Kilmichael Ambush.
About the Project:
Continuing on from our work some 10 years ago on the Coppeen Heritage Trail map, this year, we are working on trail signage and videos to enhance awareness of the heritage sites.
Heritage Trail List:
Beal na Blá (site of Michael Collins’ ambush), “The Giant’s Grave” (Coppeen), Cahirvagliair Ring Fort (Coppeen), Kinneigh Round Tower, Kilmichael Ambush site, The Old Forge (Coppeen), Gurranareigh Famine Monument, Hornhill Stone Circle
Follow in the footsteps of giants in Irish History
Brian Boru (believed to have been held captive at Cahirvagliair Fort), Michael Collins and Tom Barry (illustration by Will Sliney)
Cahirvagliair Ringfort
Cahirvagliair is said to have been a Royal Residence. Dating from approx 1000AD, its unique stone lintelled entrance is of particular interest. Folklore links it to Brian Boru, with the future high king of Ireland being held here as a hostage between the ages of 8 and 16.
Kilmichael Ambush Site.
On the 28th Nov. 1920, Tom Barry led a group of hastily trained IRA men to this remote site and carefully set up and carried out one of the most daring and successful ambushes of the War of Independence. 16 Auxiliaries were killed and a 17th died later.
Kinneigh Round Tower.
This is the last remaining Round Tower in West Cork. It is absolutely unique as it is built on a hexagonal base. It stands at 72ft in height and dates from around 1000 AD. The original monastery at Kinneigh dates from 619 AD.
Beal na Blá
Michael Collins is probably the most iconic figure in modern Irish history. On 22nd Aug. 1922, Michael lost his life when his convoy was ambushed at this site, during the Irish Civil War. Prominent historians agree that his death changed the course of Irish history.
