Closer in time we can find the remnants of those who lived here in recorded eras. There are a number of raths or circular earthen fortifications, often used as individual occupation sites and some as the power bases of local kings and strong men. One of the most dramatic of these structures is the Giant’s Sconce at the boundary of Coleraine and Limavady, just off the Windyhill Road. This fortified place has fine views out across the flat plateau below towards Slemish mountain.
To the rear, a sheer cliff, to the front, the ramparts constructed of unmortared stone curved to protect the internal area. Such stone structures are known as cashels.
In this early period the full area was part of the territory of the Ulaid, who gave their name to ‘Ulster’, but over the centuries they were defeated and pushed eastwards across the Bann by the Cenel Eoghan. Two battles between them are said to have occurred at the Giant’s Sconce in 628 and 681AD.
To the rear, a sheer cliff, to the front, the ramparts constructed of unmortared stone curved to protect the internal area. Such stone structures are known as cashels.
In this early period the full area was part of the territory of the Ulaid, who gave their name to ‘Ulster’, but over the centuries they were defeated and pushed eastwards across the Bann by the Cenel Eoghan. Two battles between them are said to have occurred at the Giant’s Sconce in 628 and 681AD.
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