Newgrange

 Newgrange, Dowth & Knowth

 

A visit to the ancient monuments in the Boyne Valley is a must for every visitor to Ireland. Nowhere can the past be experienced as impressively as within the central chamber of Newgrange. The Brú na Boinne site willl provide a uniqe and educational experience to all that will take a trip inside the tombs.  This is one of the places in Ireland that will take your breath away simply by being there.
 
 

Archaeologists classified Newgrange as a passage tomb, however Newgrange is now recognised to be much more than a passage tomb. Ancient Temple is a more fitting classification, a place of astrological, spiritual, religious and ceremonial importance, much as present day cathedrals are places of prestige and worship where dignitaries may be laid to rest.


 


Newgrange is a large kidney shaped mound covering an area of over one acre, retained at the base by 97 kerbstones, some of which are richly decorated with megalithic art. The 19 metre long inner passage leads to a cruciform chamber with a corbelled roof. The amount of time and labour invested in construction of Newgrange suggests a well-organized society with specialised groups responsible for different aspects of construction.

Newgrange is part of a complex of monuments built along a bend of the River Boyne known collectively as Brú na Bóinne. The other two principal monuments are Knowth (the largest) and Dowth, but throughout the region there are as many as 35 smaller mounds.