Ardagh Ringfort

Ardagh Ringfort, known locally as Reerasta Fort, is just outside the village Ardagh, which takes its name from the Irish term ‘ardach’ meaning a high field.  The monument is a typical “líos” or earthen ringfort probably built in the period between 500 – 900 AD as the home for a wealthy farmer and his family. There are about 60,000 recorded ringforts throughout Ireland – what makes this one unique is its association with the Ardagh Chalice.

In 1868 a boy digging potatoes planted in the ringfort disturbed a flagstone and upon turning it over discovered the 8^th century chalice, along with a second smaller chalice and four silver pennanular broaches dating to the 8^th or 9^th century. The Ardagh Chalice resembles late Roman tableware in form but its construction and decoration are of an Irish style. The chalice itself was made of spun silver and decorated with silver glass amber and enamel ornaments, as well as intricate gold-filigree panels depicting Celtic motifs. The chalice also features a single polished quartz crystal below the base. It is considered a masterpiece of early medieval craftsmanship and is regarded as one of the finest pieces of Celtic art in existence. The Ardagh Chalice is also the model for the Sam Maguire Cup which is awarded each year to the winning team in the GAA All-Ireland Gaelic Football Championship.

The Ardagh Chalice is on permanent display at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin.

Note: Ardagh Fort is located on a working farm and visitors are requested to close gates behind them and not to disturb livestock.

Visit Historic Environment Viewer for more information on Ardagh Ringfort

Protect our Past - Click here to read about the importance of protecting our country’s unique heritage sites

This national monument is protected in accordance with the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014