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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

Midir and Etain - print
  • Midir and Etain - print
  • Midir and Etain - print
  • Midir and Etain - print
  • Midir and Etain - print
SKU A335
€15.00
* Type & Size of Print:


Midir and Etain

Midir, son of the God Dagda of the Tuatha Dé Danann, fell in love with Etain and took her to be his second wife. His first wife, Fuamnach, was unhappy and using the magic of the Sidhe (fairies), turned Etain into a butterfly. A storm came and swept her away. She landed at a king’s home and fell into a cup of wine. The king’s wife drank from the cup and swallowed the butterfly. Nine months later, the reincarnation of Etain was born. Eventually she married a king, Eochaid but one day Midir found her, after many, many years of searching. Midir challenged Eochaid to a game of Fidchell (a game like chess), in exchange for Etain. Eochaid’s luck ran out, but he would not honour his bet. Midir, being of the fairy kingdom, used his magic and took Etain by the hand. They disappeared in front of their eyes though it was said that two swans were seen flying in the direction of Brí Leith, (now Ardagh hill), the home of Midir.

Illustration from an original by Margaret McKenna