| Of all the historical sites in not just Ireland but | | | | carvings are circular in nature and could be described |
| Western Europe, one rises above them all. In fact, | | | | as megalithic. |
| the only other monument that could come close to | | | | The centre of the tomb is polygonal with three |
| the importance of Newgrange is Stonehenge in | | | | separate recesses off the centre which would have |
| England. Dating back to 3000bc, Newgrange offers up | | | | been used as tombs. The roof of the centre is built |
| many more questions than it can answer, but one | | | | in an ever decreasing circle which provides height |
| thing is for sure, this monument was of massive | | | | with incredible strength. |
| importance during prehistoric times in Ireland. | | | | The most notable aspect of Newgrange, and |
| Newgrange is built in the form of a passage tomb, in | | | | probably the most incredible, is the fact that on the |
| that there is a passage way which leads to the area | | | | shortest day of the year, and a couple of days |
| in the centre which serves as a tomb. Newgrange is | | | | either side, the sun shines directly though a small |
| 85m in diameter in a circular shape, and at its highest | | | | opening over the entrance through the 19 meters |
| point, 11m high. The passage is 19m long and the | | | | into the centre chamber. This was used as a |
| temperatures inside are constant all year round. The | | | | rudimentary calendar and the people could then count |
| mound is held in place by 97 massive stones which | | | | the days until the crops should be planted. |
| circumnavigate the monument. | | | | Today visitors to the monument are given an idea of |
| The entrance to the tomb is marked by several | | | | what this spectacular event must look like by the use |
| carved stones, the meaning of which has yet to be | | | | of artificial light. The tours on December 22nd each |
| discovered. Most probably, the carvings are a map of | | | | year which witness the real thing are booked out for |
| the River Boyne and surrounding areas. The designs / | | | | many years in advance. |