The Tuatha Dé Danann — also known as Druids or the Fairy Folk— were early pre-Celtic inhabitants of Ireland. Mythical demi-Gods possessing supernatural powers, they are associated with Newgrange and other ancient sites in Ireland. When they were defeated by the Milesians (later known as the Gaels) about 1000 years BC, the Fairies were forced to live underground in the Otherworld or Underworld.

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Fairy Forts are believed to have been created as entrances to the Otherworld. Great care was taken by Locals not to disrespect or damage fairy forts or the hawthorn trees (fairy trees) that commonly grew on them, for fear of angering the Fairies. Fairies can be vindictive when crossed, curdling milk in cows’ bellies, transforming people into enchanted animals and even snatching away newborn healthy children and replacing them with a sickly infant (or “Changeling”).

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Many fairy forts remain in Ireland. There is even a 3 ring fairy fort on the Golf Course at Slievenamon. Legend has it that tunnels from our local fairy forts in the area lead right to the heart of Slievenamon mountain.