2022/02/28 by William O'Brien · 1 voice
Earth and Planetary Sciences · Social Sciences · #Archaeological Research and Protection #Archaeology and ancient environmental studies #Historical and Cultural Archaeology Studies
paper · doi:10.30861/9781407359250
openalex publication_date 2022/02/28 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2025/11/06
Derrycarhoon is the first copper mine discovered in Ireland from the later Bronze Age. This book presents the results of recent archaeological survey and excavation of a small multi-period mine in the Cork region, along with details of landscape setting, bedrock geology, mineralisation and palaeoecology. The recent history of mining and prospection at Derrycarhoon is examined, beginning with the discovery in 1846 of so-called ‘Danish Mines’ now dated c.1300-1000 BC. The technology and operation of the early mine is considered, as well as its significance for the supply of copper in Bronze Age Ireland. The wider context is explored in relation to contemporary farm settlement in the region, with particular reference to the religious monuments of those communities. That settlement landscape was connected to regional trade networks controlled by emerging hillfort chiefdoms, at a time of growing militarism and pressure on metal supply in Ireland.