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.
For well over 5000 years, the Loughcrew cairns have overlooked the landscape of north Meath. Here we see echoes of the legendary Cailleach in the night sky as shadows of past generations still worship in the ancient stones. It is said the Cailleach, a Goddess/witch, formed the cairn from the stones that fell from her apron.
