O Newgrange, located in the county of Meath in Ireland, is one of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world and also UNESCO World Heritage. Some say Newgrange is a temple, others say it's a tomb, but really no one really knows what it is.
However, the reality is that despite the lack of consensus on the history of this place, the monument is full of stories and mysteries. What is known is that the construction took place around 3.200 BC in the Neolithic period. That is, he is five thousand years old and older than the Egypt's pyramids and the Stonehenge in the UK! Furthermore, Newgrange is estimated to have taken at least 20 years to build.
Did you realize the importance? It is definitely an essential tour for anyone looking for things to do in Ireland.
In this post you will see:
- History, Construction and Mysteries of Newgrange Ireland
- Tour em Newgrange
- How to get to Newgrange Ireland?
- Opening Hours:
- Ireland travel insurance
History, Construction and Mysteries of Newgrange Ireland
until 1699 the Newgrange remained untouchable. Therefore, it had more than 4 thousand years of natural preservation.
The 97 stones that surround the Newgrange they weigh from 1 to 10 tonnes and were brought over 80 km from around Ireland. Can you imagine carrying out this whole construction? Five thousand years ago there was no domesticated horse and the wheel had not been invented. “How did they do all this?” is the question everyone asks.
The most impressive thing is that what happens around December 21, the date that marks the beginning of winter. On this day and some mornings after, an incredible phenomenon happens. Sunbeams enter through the “window” above the main door and illuminate the entire 19-meter corridor until reaching the center.
This phenomenon happens for just 17 minutes, exactly every year, on the same day. Didn't I say it was impressive?
There are several debates about the purpose of this construction, some archaeologists believe that the monument has religious significance, others that it was a cult of the dead (since bodies were found inside space) and even that it was based on astronomy.
Nobody knows for sure the real meaning, but one thing I can say: the construction is magnificent, very interesting and it's chilling! Worth a visit for anyone looking what to do in ireland.
Tour em Newgrange
On the first ride of the 'The Ali Logo', directly from Ireland, I took a guided tour that lasts approximately 1h30 and it is possible to enter a specific part of the Newgrange, intended for visitation.
Everyone enters in single file, with bags in front of them. In many moments it is necessary to crouch to pass. The entry of claustrophobic people is not recommended and it is forbidden to take pictures.
The guide explains all the history and curiosities of the monument and the coolest thing is the simulation of the sunbeam (obviously artificial). It's really very interesting!
How to get to Newgrange Ireland?
O Newgrange it is 50 km from Dublin. I went by car, but there are tours that leave the city. The company Mary Gibbons has this tour and it costs 35 euros per person.
You can go on your own as I did, but you must pay to go to the monument. go to the bru visitation center in Bóinne, buy the ticket (6 euros) and they will take you on a minibus for the tour. Super easy.
Visiting hours depend on the time of year, but it is closed in December on the 24th, 25th, 26th and 27th. almost impossible to get the ticket, there is even a lottery. Can you imagine how cool to participate?
>> Also read How to drive in Ireland.
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Opening Hours:
- January – 9h às 17h
- February March April – 9:30 am to 17:30 pm
- May – 9 am to 18:30 pm
- June to September – 9h às 19h
- October – 9:30 am to 17:30 pm
- November and December – 9h às 17h
If you want more information, visit the website, to find out about what to do in Ireland and the necessary tour information.
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