Notice
Keeler’s Stone is a state-owned National Monument in the care of the Office of Public Works
*Please be aware there are sometimes livestock in the field surrounding this monument*
WARNING: It should be noted that these sites are unguided and a level of care and caution should be maintained during all stages of your visit. The Office Of Public Works (OPW) will not be held responsible for any damages, injuries, or losses that occur
Keeler’s Stone
Keeler’s Stone (known locally as “na Beistí”) is a multiple bullaun stone consisting of a large irregularly-shaped boulder, 2.41m x 2.54m x at least .34m high, with 7 depressions in its upper surface. Bullaun stones date from the early medieval period and are most commonly found in association with monastic sites throughout Ireland.
The bowl-shaped hollows in these stones appear to have been used to grind material either for food preparation, or as part of an industrial process. The depressions on Keeler’s stone are irregular, oval or circular in shape and vary in size from 42cm in diameter x 25cm in depth to 22cm in diameter x 4cm in depth. A second bullaun stone was unearthed during road works in 1984 and has now been set standing against the new wall on the western side of the roadway.
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
Gallery
Nearby sites to visit
Ionad an Bhlascaoid – The Blasket Centre
The story of a remarkable island community
Approx. 10.8 km from Keeler’s Stone
Ardfert Cathedral
A trio of medieval churches devoted to St Brendan
Approx. 40.6 km from Keeler’s Stone
Sceilg Mhichíl UNESCO World Heritage Property
An island monastery towering over the sea
Approx. 47.7 km from Keeler’s Stone
