Megalithic Ireland is timeless, and these pre-historic Irish monuments captivate visitors even millennia after their origins have been lost to history. Many travelers are drawn to Ireland’s rich tapestry of megalithic and prehistoric artifacts. These remarkable structures, erected thousands of years ago by unknown builders, evoke intrigue and fascination through their sheer presence and the mysteries surrounding their purpose. Furthermore, the stunning landscapes and proposed mystical significance add to their allure. So, what are the must-visit sites? Let’s explore.

Newgrange

What is Newgrange?
Newgrange is a reconstructed passage tomb that boasts a cruciform inner chamber.

Where is Newgrange?
Located between Slane and Drogheda in County Meath, access is available via the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre, conducted solely by guided tours.

Why is Newgrange important?
This tomb symbolizes the pinnacle of megalithic construction.

What will you see at Newgrange?
The visitor center delves into the historical and astronomical significance, while the tour includes a journey into the inner chamber with a simulated winter solstice experience.

Why should you visit Newgrange?
It is recognized as Ireland’s foremost megalithic site.

Carrowmore

What is Carrowmore?
Carrowmore is a megalithic cemetery, reputedly the largest in Ireland.

Where is Carrowmore?
It is located a few miles from Sligo, forming a triangle with Queen Maeve’s Grave and Benbulben.

Why is Carrowmore important?
The sheer scale of this megalithic cemetery is remarkable on its own.

What will you see at Carrowmore?
The site features tombs of varying shapes and sizes. A small visitor center provides context and a self-guided tour leads you through the key tombs.

Why should you visit Carrowmore?
If you have an interest in ancient “earth mysteries,” you will appreciate the impressive alignments found throughout this site.

Knowth

What is Knowth?
Knowth is a reconstructed passage tomb featuring two passages.

Where is Knowth?
This tomb is situated between Slane and Drogheda in County Meath, with access through the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre and guided tours only.

Why is Knowth important?
The dual passages of this tomb exhibit remarkable solar alignments.

What will you see at Knowth?
The visitor center elaborates on the historic and astronomical significance, leading into an exploration of the site.

Why should you visit Knowth?
Although it receives less attention than nearby Newgrange, many visitors find Knowth to be more engaging.

Loughcrew

What is Loughcrew?
This site is recognized as Ireland’s second-largest megalithic cemetery.

Where is Loughcrew?
Located south of Oldcastle in County Meath.

Why is Loughcrew important?
Loughcrew houses several passage tombs that exhibit fascinating solar alignments and captivating rock art.

What can you expect at Loughcrew?
Visitors can find numerous tombs in both complete and incomplete states, with the main tomb’s keys available nearby (see local signs). The stunning rock art and the challenging climb from the car park contribute to the site’s experience.

Why should you visit Loughcrew?
The tombs are accessible without charge and are genuinely spectacular, with breathtaking views that compensate for the steep climb.

The Hill of Tara

What is the Hill of Tara?
This site is famed as the place where Ireland’s High Kings once gathered for important ceremonies.

Where is the Hill of Tara?
Located northwest of Dublin.

Why is the Hill of Tara important?
Tara has served as a royal seat and ceremonial center for centuries, intimately linked to Saint Patrick.

What will you see at the Hill of Tara?
In addition to a visitor center housed in an ancient church, the site boasts extensive earthworks for exploration.

Why should you visit the Hill of Tara?
Given its pivotal role in Irish history, enriched with legends and myths, Tara is an essential destination for those intrigued by Ireland’s past.

Poulnabrone Dolmen

What is the Poulnabrone Dolmen?
This iconic structure represents the quintessential dolmen.

Where is the Dolmen?
Situated amidst the rugged landscapes of the Burren in County Clare.

Why is the Poulnabrone Dolmen important?
It stands out as one of the region’s most striking monuments, exemplifying the dolmen architecture.

What will you see at Poulnabrone?
The site features a series of standing stones supporting a massive capstone, the weight of which is truly astonishing.

Why should you visit the Poulnabrone Dolmen?
It offers an unmatched experience in a landscape that enhances its grandeur.

Queen Maeve’s Grave

What is Queen Maeve’s Grave?
This enigmatic site, a mound of stones atop Knocknarea, is traditionally identified as the resting place of legendary Queen Maeve.

Where is Queen Maeve’s Grave?
Located just south of Sligo.

Why is Queen Maeve’s Grave important?
As one of the most renowned yet unexplored megalithic sites in Ireland, it continues to inspire numerous legends and unconventional theories.

What will you see at Queen Maeve’s Grave?
An awe-inspiring mound of stones set against a backdrop that offers sweeping views of all Sligo Bay.

Why should you visit Queen Maeve’s Grave?
Its remarkable location provides unparalleled scenic beauty, making it a notable prehistoric site.

Navan Fort

What is Navan Fort?
While its exact purpose remains unclear, it is believed to have served as a ceremonial site in ancient times.

Where is Navan Fort?
Located near Armagh.

Why is Navan Fort important?
This site is thought to have been one of the principal royal locations in northern Ireland, potentially referenced in ancient Irish epics.

What will you see at Navan Fort?
Visitors can explore Earthworks and a modern visitor center offering insights into its history.

Why should you visit Navan Fort?
As one of the lesser-known prehistoric sites in Ireland, it is shrouded in mystery and stands as a worthy rival to many more prominent sites.

Dun Aenghus

What is Dun Aenghus?
This impressive promontory fort is defined by its three-sided walls and a steep drop into the ocean for the final defense.

Where is Dun Aenghus?
Positioned on the southern cliff of Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands.

Why is Dun Aenghus important?
The strategic choice of location enhances the fort’s significance, especially for those unaffected by heights.

What will you see at Dun Aenghus?
The sturdy stone walls that provided protection and the dramatic drop to the ocean make for a breathtaking view.

Why should you visit Dun Aenghus?
Its unique setting and historical gravitas make this site an unforgettable experience.

Fourknocks

What is Fourknocks?
Fourknocks stands out as a unique passage tomb, featuring an inner chamber that is disproportionately large compared to the mound’s size.

Where is Fourknocks?
This site is found near Clonalvy in County Meath.

Why is Fourknocks important?
Its uniqueness makes it significant; similar passage tombs are largely located in Portugal!

What will you see at Fourknocks?
Externally, it appears as a grassy knoll, but acquiring the key locally will reveal its stunning interior.

Why should you visit Fourknocks?
Its distinctive design and the suggestion of ancient international connections provide an intriguing reason to explore.