Brú na Bóinne (Donore, Ireland)
Brú na Bóinne along the River Boyne in County Meath is a Neolithic complex that predates both the Pyramids and Stonehenge. The 3,300-hectare site includes a large number of archeological remains extending 7,000 years back in time. The Newgrange mound (part passage tomb, part observatory, and part temple) is the showpiece of Brú na Bóinne. The mound, which covers about an acre, is encircled by standing stones. Evidence of timber circles and the presence of numerous fire hearths suggest its ceremonial value to the ancients. Knowth, a second passage tomb covering about a hectare, is surrounded by 17 smaller tumuli as well as by the post holes of a timber circle, Bronze age burials and a Celtic hill fort. Dowth, the third mound, has survived less intact than its companions and remains largely unexcavated and unrestored. In addition to being a site of Irish national cultural importance, Brú na Bóinne has been designated as a World Heritage Site. Its facilities include a car park, restaurant, gift shop and large Visitor Centre that controls access to the monuments under its jurisdiction. Tickets, orientation, and a variety of programs are offered through the Centre.
Contact
Brú na Bóinne, Telephone: +353(41)9880300 | Fax: +353(41)9823071 | Official site