On leaving Waterford, we took the freeway to Dublin as we wanted to visit Bru Na Boinne, a Neolithic tomb reputed to be older than the pyramids, before heading into Dublin. The site is about 50 km north of Dublin. It was not well signposted on the road that we took but we eventually found it.
Visitors to the sites are strictly controlled and although we arrived at 11.45 AM we could not get on a tour until 2.15PM. At the visitor’s centre there is an excellent display of Neolithic life and of how the archaeologists believe the structures were built.
We were able to visit 2 of the 3 major sites, Knowth and Newgrange Tumulus. At Knowth, we were unable to enter the underground chambers as they had collapsed in over the thousands of years. However, there were 2 main tunnels and these were aligned perfectly east west and the sunlight from the equinox would enter the chambers. The mounds are covered with grass.
At Newgrange, we were able to enter the underground chamber. These people had constructed a dome from rock in the central chamber and it has never leaked in thousands of years. How amazing is that!!! Pity the guy who put my skylight in didn’t have this ability!! There is a special light shaft that is aligned to the shortest day and for 17 minutes the sun’s rays penetrates the chamber and give it a golden glow. The guide simulated that experience for us. Was mind-blowing to think that these people had the ability to quarry these huge rocks, then transport them from 20 miles away, then put them into place!
Our tour did not finish until 5.15 PM so by the time we got back to Dublin, it was after 6. Thought we would get accommodation near the airport but that was not to be! Fully booked. We drove into Dublin, tried a few hotels and B&B’s no luck. Started to get a bit frantic and then decided to drive back the way we came. Turned off at Swords and found a Hotel and it was just near the airport! Luck of the Irish.
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