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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

Mistletoe - card
  • Mistletoe - card
  • Mistletoe - card
SKU TL12
€3.00

23 December

In the ancient Irish Tree Lore Calendar, there were 13 months and one day. This extra day was the 23rd December, the day after the Winter Solstice which was called the Nameless Day. It was represented by the Mistletoe which was considered by the Druids to be a powerful plant. Great care was taken to harvest the Mistletoe which was thought to embody a strong male energy. The Druid would use a golden sickle and ensure that Mistletoe would not fall to the ground but rather, be carefully removed from the branches where it grew. Mistletoe that was found in the branches of the sacred Oak was especially revered as it was thought that it was placed there during a lightning strike which gave it a particular power. Fighting warriors who met beneath the Mistletoe would lay down their arms and make peace, a forerunner to the custom of kissing beneath the Mistletoe at Christmas. Unlike other signs of the Tree Lore Calendar, there is no Ogham (ancient Irish writing) for the Mistletoe.

Illustration from an original by Margaret McKenna