Newgrange

Newgrange is a prehistoric monument built over 5,000 years ago as a tomb and temple comparable to modern day cathedrals. It was built in County Meath during the Neolithic period, which means it is older than the pyramids or Stonehenge. Newgrange is a large, circular shaped mound with an inner passageway that leads to a chamber inside. The retaining wall around it is surrounded by large stones decorated with artwork.

 

Some of the artwork



Newgrange from a distance

 

Newgrange is probably best known for the winter solstice, when the passageway and chamber are lightened by the rising sun. From December 19^th to 23^rd, at dawn, a beam of light pierces the small window above the entrance and as the sun, the beam grows to illuminate the whole chamber. Newgrange is an extraordinarily accurate time-telling device that was most likely used to mark the beginning of the new year.

 



 

The Winter Solstice sun rise