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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 Fox - card
  • The Fox - card
  • The Fox - card
SKU AL02
€3.00

Mar 18th - Apr 14th

The Fox has two names in the Irish language, Sionnach or Madra Rua, literally meaning, Red Dog. It is an animal forever intertwined with life in rural and indeed, urban Ireland. The Fox was regarded in high esteem for its cunning and resourcefulness by the Druids in ancient Ireland and in Christian times there is a tale of the Fox and St. Brigid whereby a hunted Fox is given sanctuary by the saint. She brings it to the king who was about to put to death, a man who had killed had killed his fox, one of high intelligence. When St. Brigid’s fox proves of equal talents, the man is freed. It is said the fox eventually returned to his home in the wild. The Fox 18th March - 14th April. Tree Lore equivalent, the Alder.

Illustrated by Margaret McKenna