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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

The Hill of Tara - mug
  • The Hill of Tara - mug
  • The Hill of Tara - mug
SKU MG24
€10.00

The Lia Fáil and the Hill of Tara

The Hill of Tara in County Meath was once home to the High Kings of ancient Ireland. The oldest evidence visible today of it being an important site is the Mound of the Hostages, a passage tomb dating from approximately 3000BC. Nearby stands the Lia Fáil, a standing stone and said to be the stone by which the High Kings of Ireland were inaugurated. According to legend, the stone would shout out if a rightful Kind was chosen.

Illustration from an original by Margaret McKenna