Cloghagalla, Chambered Grave, Boviel Road, Dungiven, Co Londonderry

The site comprises well-preserved remains of a wedge tomb, a relatively uncommon burial monument in the north-west of Ireland, where they are more prevalent to the south and west. The tomb is situated in a field grazed by sheep and is visible due to the absence of shrub cover. It is a wedge tomb with a gallery that would have served as the burial place of an individual, with the entrance facing approximately southwest. The outer stones form a “U” shape. The tomb lies beside the Boviel Road as it ascends towards Benbradagh mountain, approximately 30 metres from the road verge at a contour of around 900 metres, within a predominantly moorland landscape.

According to “The Archaeology of Ulster,” the tomb is a good example of an Ulster wedge tomb, featuring a gallery divided by several stones creating an antechamber, and kerb stones defining the outer boundary. Associated archaeological finds include remains of late Neolithic Sandhills ware, flint scrapers, and a polished stone axe. The burial contained cremated remains, identified as those of an adult female. The tomb is considered significant in that it provides clear evidence of construction during the Neolithic period.

Historical records from the Ordnance Survey map (1st Edition, County Londonderry sheet 25) and the Ordnance Survey Memoirs of Ireland (Parishes of County Londonderry IV, 1824, 1833-5) detail the site. Further information can be found in “The Archaeology of Ulster” by J.P. Mallory and T.E. McNeill (pages 70 and 71).