Restoration plan for ‘sweat house’

One of the oldest known historical archaeological structures in Ballinahinch-Killoscully parish is to undergo an in-dept study over the coming months as a prelude to full restoration and preservation at a further stage.

The 'sweat house', discovered some years ago at the foot of Keeper Hill, is believed to be one of the last remaining structures of its type in the country in condition suitable for restoration to its original condition.

Killoscully Development Association (KDA) is committed to the project of research and restoration of the structure discovered at Doonane Wood, and believed to date to around 1700 AD. As a preliminary stage the association have been successful in their application for funding from the Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2026 run by the Heritage Council.

The funds will go towards the preparation of a Conservation Management Plan for the rare historical structure, which is believed to have been used as a type of sauna heated with turf and was likely used for health reasons centuries ago.

These structures were usually located beside a stream.

Over the next three months, KDA plan to organise archaeological, architectural and biodiversity studies of the site to be undertaken by professional consultants in each discipline.

To get to this stage in their plan to preserve the structure, Killoscully Development Association have had great support from Heritage Council under the Adopt a Monument Scheme, Coilte and Tipperary County Council.

As part of the project promotion, KDA members gave a presentation to the pupils of Ballynahinch National School before break up for summer, which was enthusiastically received.