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Loughcrew Equinox

The Loughcrew cairns, Oldcastle, Co. Meath, Ireland, are approximately 5,400 years old (Older than the pyramids of Egypt). Each Spring and Autumn Equinox the rising sun lights the passage chamber of Cairn T, the rays hitting the highly decorated back stone.

Many stories are connected to this prehistoric site including that of the Cailleach or witch/goddess. According to the Legend, the Loughcrew cairns were formed by the Cailleach throwing rocks from her apron, jumping from hill to hill. It is said that she tripped and died and is buried on Patrickstown, one of the hills. The area, known today as Sliabh na Caillí or Mountain of the Witch, reflects this age-old story.

 

 

 

The Art of Irish Lore

Leprechaun - mug
  • Leprechaun - mug
  • Leprechaun - mug
SKU MGFC02
€10.00

The Leprechaun

Perhaps the most famous of all Irish fairies is the Leprechaun and one that has been exploited through film and popular media. In truth, the Leprechaun was not prominent in ancient fairy lore of Ireland and although there are references in earlier literature and mythology to Leprechaun type creatures, the image as we see him nowadays is a later interpretation. He (as it is invariably male) is said to be a cobbler, small and usually dressed in green or brown clothes. According to fairy lore, if you see him and avert your eyes for just a moment, he will disappear as he likes to remain solitary. It is also said that the Leprechaun guards a crock of gold but because of his evasiveness, it is unlikely any mortal will have the chance to prove that mystery.

Illustration from an original by Margaret McKenna