Latest Visits
Countries
Regions
Years
Categories
Search

Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne

Newgrange, Ireland
29.03.2013

The three main prehistoric sites of the Brú na Bóinne Complex, Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, are situated on the north bank of the River Boyne 50 km north of Dublin. This is Europe's largest and most important concentration of prehistoric megalithic art. The monuments there had social, economic, religious and funerary functions. Brú na Bóinne, also known as the Bend of the Boyne, is an archaeological site in County Meath in the north-east of Ireland. It consists of three significant passage tomb megalithic sites dating from the Neolithic period (c. 3000 BC). The three Brú na Bóinne sites are Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth.

Newgrange is the oldest and best known of the three sites and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a magnificent stone-built tumulus containing a burial chamber that is over 5,000 years old. The façade of the tumulus is decorated with elaborate stone carvings, which are considered a symbol of culture and the past. The entrance to the burial chamber is built to catch the light of the winter solstice and illuminate the interior of the tomb.

The second part of the ensemble, Knowth, is also a mighty tumulus consisting of more than 200 tombs. It is known for its numerous stone carvings on the façade of the tumulus.

The last part of the ensemble is Dowth, the least known part of the archaeological ensemble. It is another, smaller tumulus that also has an entrance that catches the light of the winter solstice.

Brú na Bóinne is an important archaeological ensemble that offers a unique testimony to Irish history and culture. It is a place where visitors can experience the past and explore the culture of Ireland.