The Newgrange Burial Chamber

Newgrange is one of the best examples (if not the best) of an ancient burial tomb. The huge foundation stones were brought upstream from the coast over 20 miles away. Although the people living at the time were farmers, they also had a knowledge of engineering, geology, art and astronomy.


A view of Newgrange from the bottom of the hill. The white fascade is quartz brought from another area.


The monolithic entrance stone is a fine example of stone age art.


Gene in front of the entrance to the tomb. Groups of 24 enter the tomb through a narrow, low-ceiling passage. In the center is a circular area where ceremonies took place 5,000 years ago. The tomb is pitch black except for about 17 minutes on the winter solstice when the rising sun sends a beam of light through the opening above the entrance door into the inner chamber. A lottery selects about 50 people each year to experience this event.