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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

Bealtaine - card
  • Bealtaine - card
  • Bealtaine - card
SKU AC02S
€3.50

Bealtaine

In ancient times there were four main festivals to mark the passage of each year, Imbolc (February 1st), marking the beginning of Spring, Bealtaine (May 1st), the start of summer, Lughnasa (August 1st), the first harvest and Samhain (October 31st -November 1st).
Eriu, after whom Ireland (Éire) is named, was one part of a triple Goddess, along with her sisters Banba and Fodhla. Ériu had close association with Uisneach the Centre of Ireland and a sacred place, where the five ancient provinces met. Here we see her with the fire of Bealtaine as it was on Uisneach the first flame of that feast was lit, to be followed by subsequent fires throughout the land. Also at Uisneach is the famous Catstone, a huge rock formation under which it is said she is buried.

Illustration from an original by Margaret McKenna