This large flat-topped rock is tucked into a steep ridge overlooking Bantry Bay. During Penal times (from early 17th century onwards) the Protestant Ascendancy dominated by imposing a restrictive religious, economic and political law on Roman Catholics. Worship was restricted or forbidden, churches destroyed, Bishops were banned, and priests had to be registered. A stone in some remote spot was chosen as a meeting point where mass could be celebrated in secret. Information was by word of mouth and the priest, often arriving in disguise, risked imprisonment. The site was restored in 2000, a special mass was held, and commemorative stone designed.
External Links:
https://roaringwaterjournal.com/2014/10/05/were-you-at-the-rock/