Knockeyon

Infobox Mountain
Name= Knockeyon
Photo=Knockeyon_ab_morning_fog01.jpg
Caption=Knockeyon, foggy morning, County Westmeath
Elevation= convert|215|m|ft|0
Location = County Westmeath, Ireland
Range = Westmeath Hills
Coordinates = Coord|53|37|24.3|N|7|17|49.6|W|type:mountain|scale:100000|display=inline,title
Prominence = convert|197|m|ft|0}
Listing = Marilyn

Knockeyon (Irish: "Cnoic Eoghain"), when viewed from the Ranaghan, and Gillards-town side of the hill, it dominates the surrounding lakes in the countryside of northern County Westmeath. Situated between Lough Lene, upon the southeastern shores of Lough Derravaragh, Knockeyon oversees much of the north Leinster countryside.

Ancient Chapel

Half way up the hill slope remains the ruins of an ancient chapel, built by St. Cauragh, and dedicated to St. Eyon.

The chapel was cut out of the natural rock, and is believed to have never possessed a roof. Adjacent to this chapel are the ruins of St Cauragh's Well, its waters were believed to have miraculous properties.

Habitat

Knockeyon and other surrounding hills around the southeastern shore of the lake support deciduous woodland which is comprised mostly of native species. Hazel, rowan, ash and oak are abundant. Exotic species occur occasionally, including beech.

The neighbouring Knockbody wood is inhabited by wild pheasant and is a popular attraction for local pheasant hunters.
On occasions the pochard population, which is one of the largest in Ireland, has exceeded the threshold for international importance. (i.e. 3500 individual fowl)
(obtained from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, 13th September 2007).

External References

* [http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=53.623417,-7.297111&spn=0.1,0.1&t=h&q=53.623417,-7.297111 Google Map]

* [http://www.viamichelin.fr/viamichelin/fra/dyn/controller/mapPerformPage?strCountry=919&strAddress=&strCP=&strLocation=Crookedwood&x=197&y=117 Via-Michelin Map]