Settlements in the Kilmartin Valley

Dun Add

All pictures copyright © 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 Martin McCarthy

A view of the Kilmartin valley from the hill-top fort at Dunadd looking towards the village of Kilmartin. Large image(162k) The top of Dunadd, looking towards the inner citadel. Large image(114k) Footprint and ogham script carved into the rock at Dunadd. Large image(92k) Some of the remaining wall on the lower reaches of Dun Add Large image(58k) Some of the remaining wall on the lower reaches of Dun Add Large image(55k)

During the seventh century the Cenél Loairn (leaders of the Dál Riada or Dál Riata) had a fortified dun at Dunadd. Óengus mac Fergusa, one of the most powerful and successful Pictish kings, captured Dunadd early in the eighth century. However, it was soon recaptured by the Dál Riada. There are several carvings in the rock at the entrance to the inner citadel, including footprints, a bowl, a boar and an ogham inscription.