Bocan Stone Circle: Culdaff
Taken from Inishowen. A Journey through its past by Neil McGrory

Bocan Stone Circle when seen from afar appears insignificant, lost almost, behind trees and dwarfed by more modern structures, but it is only when viewed right up close that its full glory comes to life. Situated on good pasture land on the hill of Bocan, Inishowen from Sliabh Snaght to Trawbrega Bay right to Glengad is visible. This magnificent view with Culdaff and Bocan chapel just below is impressive especially if seen at sunrise or sunset.

It has been speculated that stone circles like this one were originally sun temples. Many of the stones (originally numbering 30 in all) were removed during indiscriminate land development so that one has to imagine partially the circular form. The remaining stones are up to seven feet tall and it is easy to conjure up the image of sacred rites being performed, and wonder as to what type of religion was being practised.

What people build this structure is unclear but dates of its construction have been suggested as somewhere between 1500-3000 B.C. The area close to this monument is dotted with other remnants of religious activitiy - the ancient tomb "Temple of Deen" is close by, and from here the important monastery of Cloncha and the earlier foundation of Carrowmore are in direct line of sight to southwest.

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