Lahinch, Surfing Irish Style

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Surfing Lahinch, Co. Clare Ireland

Lahinch, a small resort town in County Clare not far from the Cliffs of Moher, is one of Ireland’s premiere surfing locations.

During the past 20 years, Ireland’s West coast, the Wild Atlantic Way, has developed into a world-class surfing destination.

County Care has 13 surfable beaches.

Three of these beaches are in or near Lahinch, a town of about 700 permanent residents, that is also known for its famed Lahinch Golf Club, established in 1892.

Lahinch has several small cafes and restaurants, a church, a pub, the Lahinch and Shamrock Hotels, a bookstore and – of course – a surfing school.

Lahinch holds a place in surfing history.

On 14 May 2006, 44 surfers set a verified Guinness World Record by riding one small wave.

As many as 300 surfers took part in the event, which was the brainchild of Lahinch surfers John McCarthy, Oisin McGrath and brothers Gavin and Aaron Gallagher.
https://web.archive.org/web/20070927121458/http://timesonline.typepad.com/surf_nation/2006/06/lahinch_surfing.html

Unfortunately, Lahinch’s world record was shattered 4 October 2009 at Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town, South Africa when 110 surfers rode a single wave in an event to raise awareness of climate change that took place in conjunction with the Earthwave Beach Festival.

Lahinch is also a location for other watersports such as paddle boarding, kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Not far from Lahinch, off the Cliffs of Moher – Ireland’s top tourist destination — is the location of Ireland’s most iconic big wave, Ailleens.

Named after the nearby Aill na Searrach cliffs, Ailleens is a popular location for tow-in surfing. Only experienced, big-wave surfers need apply.
https://afloat.ie/watersport/surfing/item/33567-new-big-wave-hotspot-discovered-off-irish-coast

Championed as a “perfect wave”, with a potential height of 12 meters (39 ft), Ailleens is a wave that doesn’t happen every day.

Aileens requires stormy conditions and strong offshore east winds.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3703674/Chasing-world-s-biggest-wave-Surfer-turns-space-technology-largest-walls-water-Earth.html

➤Aileen’s Wave, Cliffs of Moher, Co. Clare.
https://www.rareirishstuff.com/blog/aileens-wave-cliffs-of-moher-co-clare.6016.html

➤Wave Profile Aileens
https://www.surfholidays.com/blog/Wave-Profile-Aileens

➤Aileen’s: the treacherous slab wave of the Cliffs of Moher
https://www.surfertoday.com/surfing/aileens-the-treacherous-slab-wave-of-the-cliffs-of-moher

➤”Aileens” Wave – Big Wave Surfing in Ireland
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BSmQlOIpCAg&ab_channel=RayJordan

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Two Artists Strip Dublin Bare

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BMd1 Stripping Dublin bare

Two artists have stripped Dublin bare.

Artists Filip Berte and Cliona Harmey collaborated to erase the hand of man from upon the land that is Dublin’s Phoenix park along with a large swath of greater Dublin.
https://filipberte.com/
https://www.clionaharmey.info/

They succeeded in a most graphic sense.

The fiendish duo accomplished this feat this using a technology known as LiDAR – Light Detection and Ranging – combined with imagery and data from Ireland’s Ordinance Survey. Using lasers, LiDAR produces high definition 3-D images of landscapes.

Berte and Harmey took an aerial LiDAR image of an area of Dublin and erased all man-made objects. Then they wantonly did the same for any and all vegetation.

Harmey, an artist and lecturer at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin, and Berte, a Ghent-based visual artist trained as an architect, did more things to the image.

These things included dismembering it into a series of perfect squares and then mounting those images on something rigid and square, possibly made from plastic.

The artists call the resulting work BMd1, Berte
admitted.
https://www.nulpuntwolk.nu/bma/

BMd1 was available for public inspection 13 Oct. to 15 Oct, 2022 in a pop-up installation in the rotunda of the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin.

BMd1 is part of Berte and Harmey’s larger concept Nul Punt Wolk (Null Point One) https://www.nulpuntwolk.nu/ that combines fragments of aerial images, mapping and landscapes.
https://www.nulpuntwolk.nu/about/

Nul Punt Wolk aims to present these aerial images in a format that could create discussions about how things might be done differently.

BMd1 reveals outlines and shapes, the underlying topography of an urban landscape, in stark shades of gray. Closer inspection of the squares show how LiDAR images are composed of tiny rectangles that when viewed from a distance blend into something softer.

During the installation the artists willingly made themselves available for interrogation.

Both artists revealed a collaboration took place during the Covid 19 lockdown. Safe distancing was maintained throughout the project, the artists claim.

Further, Berte and Harmey said they deliberately used CAD software and 3-D printing to make clever plastic hardware that incorporates wooden dowels as a way to display BMd1’s component squares.

Not content to openly display BMd1, Berte and Harmey brought along another work, the four-screen Glossa. Glossa uses small computers to display words.

Berte and Harmey, armed with BMd, are known to be headed in the direction of Galway.
https://www.tulca.ie/programme-2022?utm_source=pocket_mylist

Be on the lookout. It is understood BMd1 will appear 4-20 November, 2022, in Galway at the TULCA Festival of Visual Arts located in Gallery 1 Hynes Building, St Augustine Street, Galway, Ireland
Map:
https://goo.gl/maps/iwB4XXKkmJWsZVkPA

Berte & Harmey will participate in an artists’ talk at TULCA on Saturday, 5 Nov., 2022
https://www.tulca.ie/berte-and-harmey

Clodagh Standing Stones

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Clodagh Standing Sones

Glodagh Standing Stones 4K

Clodagh Standing Stones

The Clodagh Standing Stones are located in County Cork, Ireland. The Clodagh Standing Stones are a pair of standing stones forming a stone row.

They are a designated Irish National Monument. The smaller of the two stones is about 1 meter (3.3 ft) tall. The larger is about 1.5 meters tall.The stones may have been erected in the Bronze Age. Like many of the thousands of standing stones in Ireland, the purpose of these stones is unclear. Further information: http://ancientstones.blogspot.com/201…

The Clodagh stones may be astronomically aligned within the local topography.From mega-what.com:http://mega-what.com/sites/Clodagh-no…

These stones may be related to a small five-stone circle and two more standing stones located on private land about 200 meters to the southeast. From mega-what.com: http://mega-what.com/sites/Clodagh/in… There are several other standing stones in the area. Further information from megalithicmonumentsofireland.com: http://www.megalithicmonumentsofirela…http://www.megalithicmonumentsofirela…http://www.megalithicmonumentsofirela…

Location and access for people with mobility issues: Clodagh Standing Stones are located near Pookeen 4.8 km (3.0 mi) northeast of Drimoleague, between Castle Donovan and Dunmanway. 51°41’52.7″N 9°13’27.1″W The stones are near a road junction and open to the public.The site is mostly flat and mostly accessible to people with moderate mobility issues, though caution is advised in walking on the site. Wheelchairs could possibly access the site, but with difficulty due to a berm about a half meter high on the side of the road between the roadway and the site. Parking is limited to pulling to the side of the road far enough to not block any traffic.

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Ireland Inside and Out

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Ireland Inside & Out

Ireland Inside & Out -- Irish History, Mysteries, People And Places In Ireland And Around The World

Ireland Inside & Out
00:00 00:18 Intro 00:19 00:38 location 00:34 01:08 Going underground 01:09 06:47 Tour 06:47 08:42 Exhibition The Arigna Mining Experience is dedicated to the history of coal mining in Arigna, County Roscommon, Ireland during a period of 400 years. It is Ireland's first coal mining museum. https://www.arignaminingexperience.ie/ Mining in the Arigna area began with the extraction of iron ore from Sliabh an Iarain (Irish for "iron mountain"), anglicized Slieve Anierin, a mountain in nearby County Leitrim, Ireland. Iron was originally smelted using charcoal until most of the trees in the area were cut down and the ironworks in Argrina turned to using coal in late 1700s. These ironworks closed in 1838, but by then Arigna coal was being used to heat homes and buildings in Dublin. The area around Arigna is rocky, mountainous and poorly suited for agriculture. Mining provided work for people in the area. In 1958, the Arigna 15 megawatt power station opened to produce electricity. The Arigna coal mine was its source of fuel. It was the first major power generating station in the province of Connacht. The power station was designed to specifically to burn the semi bituminous coal with high ash content that was extracted from the Arigna mine. at its peak, The power station burned 55,000 tonnes of coal a year,. https://esbarchives.ie/portfolio/arigna/ Coal mined elsewhere in Europe became cheaper to use than the locally mined coal. The mine shut down in 1990 and the power station shut down and was decommissioned in 1993 after using up a two-year stored supply of Arigna coal. https://www.rte.ie/archives/2018/0628/973910-arigna-power-station-closes/ In the wake of the closing or the mine and power station, local residents along with local and national government agencies redeveloped the mine with dual purposes of preserving their rich mining heritage and boosting the local economy through tourism. With the support of Roscommon County Council – through its LEADER programme – and the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources, the Arigna Mining Experience was opened in April 2003. Total investment in the project was more than €2 million, with €250,000 raised by the local community. The visitor centre was expanded in 2019. It includes a café, gift shop and dedicated audio visual area. The gift shop was extended in 2019, the Arigna Mining Experience and now includes a 60 seat café, gift shop and Audio visual room. Admission to the display area, gift shop and café are free. The 45-minute tour cost is €15 for adults, €13 for seniors and children 5-18 are €8. Family and group rates are available. Open from 10am daily seven days a week. It is advisable to book in advance on-line, check availability for tours on the ‘Book Now’ button at the bottom of this page. The Arigna Mining Experience is open seven days from 10AM all year except for a few days between Christmas and New year. Advance booking is recommended. To book a tour: https://www.arignaminingexperience.ie/opening-times More reading: The Irish Times Arigna pays tribute to miners on 25th anniversary of coal mines closing Ex-miners, now guides, recall savage working conditions https://www.irishtimes.com/news/environment/arigna-pays-tribute-to-miners-on-25th-anniversary-of-coal-mines-closing-1.2139156 The Irish Times Arigna project tracks history of every household in the former mining valley Roscommon ancestor of mayor of Sydney was sent to Australia in leg irons https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/arigna-project-tracks-history-of-every-household-in-the-former-mining-valley-1.1476362 #Agrina #ireland #irishhistory #roscommon #tourism #ArignaMiningExperience
Underground Ireland: Arigna Mining Experience
0:00 Intro 0:18 Educated at Gorthaganny N.S. 0:20 Gorthaganny 0:40 Monument 00:50 Life story Dermot Earley: Irish Sporting Legend and Military Hero Dermot Earley, an iconic figure in Irish sports and military history, left an indelible mark on the fields of Gaelic football and the military. Born on February 1, 1948, in County Roscommon, Ireland, Earley's life journey was one of dedication, resilience, and exceptional achievements. Sporting Brilliance Dermot Earley's sporting prowess was evident from a young age. He first gained national attention as a Gaelic footballer, representing his county, Roscommon, with distinction. His exceptional skills on the field and his leadership qualities quickly earned him a place among the Gaelic football elite. Earley's playing career spanned from 1966 to 1985, during which he earned a reputation as one of the finest midfielders in the history of the sport. His agility, strategic thinking, and ability to score crucial points made him an invaluable asset to both his county and his club, Roscommon Gaels. One of the defining moments of Earley's Gaelic football career came in 1980 when he captained the Roscommon team to victory in the Connacht Senior Football Championship. This achievement solidified his status as a legendary figure in Roscommon's sporting history. His impact on the game was not only felt at the county level but also extended to the national stage, where he represented Ireland in the International Rules series. Military Commitment Beyond the sporting arena, Dermot Earley's life took a parallel path as a distinguished military officer. He joined the Irish Army in 1968, and his military career ran in tandem with his Gaelic football exploits. Rising through the ranks, Earley's leadership qualities were evident on and off the field. Earley's commitment to the military was most notably demonstrated during his service in Lebanon as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). His dedication and leadership in a challenging international peacekeeping mission earned him widespread respect. Legacy and Recognition Dermot Earley's legacy extends beyond the accolades and trophies he earned on the field and the military commendations he received. His impact on both Gaelic football and the military was monumental, leaving an enduring mark that continues to inspire future generations. In recognition of his contributions, the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) established the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in 2011. This state-of-the-art facility in Roscommon serves as a hub for Gaelic games development and reflects Earley's commitment to nurturing young talent. Posthumously, in 2019, Dermot Earley was honored with the GAA's Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade acknowledged not only his sporting prowess but also his broader contributions to Irish society, encompassing his military service and leadership. Dermot Earley's life journey was one of extraordinary accomplishments, seamlessly intertwining his passion for Gaelic football with a deep sense of duty to his country. His legacy lives on, not only in the trophies and awards but in the inspiration he provides to those who follow in his footsteps. As a sporting legend and military hero, Dermot Earley's impact on Irish culture and society is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a man who excelled both on and off the field. Sources: 1. "Dermot Earley: A Gaelic football legend," The Irish Times, [link]https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/dermot-earley-a-gaelic-football-legend-1.3026948 2. "Dermot Earley - A soldier and a gentleman," RTE Sporthttps://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/2010/0305/261488-earleyd/ 3. "Dermot Earley, The GAA Legend, The Gentleman," Sports Chronicle, https://www.sportschronicle.com/gaa/dermot-earley/ #DermotEarley, #gaelicfootball #irishdefenseforces #Ireland #Irish #footballer #gaa #irishhistory #majorgeneraldermotearley #irishsports #roscommonireland, #Gorthaganny #countyroscommon #irelandRoscommon #roscommon
Remembering Dermot Earley: Irish Sporting Legend and Military Hero
0:00 -- intro 0:27 - Dowth 8:35 - Knowth 16:26 - Newgrange Located in a bend of the River Boyne in County Meath, Ireland, Brú na Bóinne ("mansion or palace of the Boyne") is also called the Boyne Valley tombs. Brú na Bóinne is an ancient monument complex and ritual landscape built during the 32nd century BCE. The site is dominated by the passage tombs of Dowth (Dubhadh), Knowth (Cnogbha) and Newgrange (Sí an Bhrú). Brú na Bóinne is one of the world's most important Neolithic landscapes, and is a UNESCO Wolrd Heritage site. Collectively it consists of at least ninety monuments including passage tombs, burial mounds, standing stones and enclosures. It is the largest assemblage of megalithic art in Europe. The archaeological culture associated with is called the "Boyne culture," of which little is known. The Boyne valley has been a center of human settlement for at least 6,000 years. Most of the major structures date from the Neolithic period to around 5,000 years ago. Predating the Egyptian pyramids, the site is a complex of Neolithic mounds, chamber tombs, standing stones, henges and other prehistoric enclosures. The site covers 780 ha (1,927 acres). Brú na Bóinne is located eight kilometers west of Drogheda in County Meath, Ireland, in a bend of the River Boyne, about 40 kilometers north of Dublin. It contains about 40 passage tombs, as well as other prehistoric sites and features built later. Brú na Bóinne is also an important archaeoastronomical site. Several of the passage tombs are aligned with the winter solstice and equinoxes. The site’s construction is sophisticated, showing a knowledge of science and astronomy, which is especially evident in the winter solstice-aligned passage grave of Newgrange. Most of the monuments are on the north side of the river Boyne. Each of main tombs stand on a ridge within the river bend. Dowth, Knowth, and Newgrange may have been built to be visible from each other and from northern and southern approaches along the Boyne. Two of the tombs, Knowth and Newgrange, appear to contain stones re-used from an earlier monument at the site, there is no evidence for earlier activity at the site, except for a few finds of flint tools from Mesolithic hunters. Work on the tombs and other features by the original Boyne culture appears to have stopped around 2,900 BCE. The area was ritual and ceremonial site in the later Bronze Age and Iron Age, long after the Boyne culture that built the tombs had disappeared. The area was used until the early Bronze Age, when a number of embanked, pit and wooden post circles (collectively referred to as "henges") were built. Artifacts from the later Bronze Age include some cist and ring ditch burials and burnt mounds. From the Iron Age there is only evidence of sporadic activity, such as burials near Knowth and at Rosnaree. Valuable items from the Roman period such as coins and jewelry were found near Newgrange In Irish mythology, the tombs are considered portals to the Otherworld and the homes of the deities, The Dagda and his son Aengus. The Brú na Bóinne began was first studied by antiquarians in the 18th century. Archaeological excavations began in the 20th century, when some of the passage tombs – Knowth and Newgrange – underwent restoration. #ireland #newgrange #Dowth #Knowth #passagetomb #irish #irishhistory #ancient #ancientireland #countymeath #riverboyne #boynevalley #history #prehistoric #prehistoricireland #megalithic #megalithicireland #archeology #kerbstone #ritual #mysterious #bronzeage #henge #standingstone #stonecircle #stonecircles #neolithic #neolithicage #runes #wintersolstice #megalithicart #ironage #bronzeage
Ireland's Amazing Boyne Valley Tombs – Dowth, Knowth and Newgrange
0:00 Intro 0:32 Earliest reference to church 1:32 Graveyard 3:01 Black Death sermon 6:08 Church recorded as ruined 6:31 View of nave 7:07 15th century Gothic window 7:24 Church built after Battle of the Boyne 7:35 19th century additions St. Mary's Church, Mansfieldstown is a medieval church and National Monument in County Louth, Ireland. Mansfieldstown Church is located 3.7 km (2.3 mi) west of Castlebellingham, on the north bank of the River Glyde. The earliest reference to a church here is in the Papal Registers of 1299. Archbishop Richard FitzRalph delivered a sermon at Mansfieldstown in 1349, in the midst of the Black Death. The church was recorded as ruined in 1640. The confusingly named Mansfieldstown Old Church was built in 1691, after the Battle of the Boyne. The church currently is in ruins. The church incorporates a 15th-century Late Gothic east window. The Late Gothic east window has tracery, stones bars or ribs, that help support glass. There were many alterations and additions made in the 19th century. The graveyard surrounding the ruined church has a mixture of very old and more recent burials. A large, decorated, c. 15th-century baptismal font once stood here. The baptismal font it is now in another church names for St. Mary, St. Mary's Parish Church, in nearby Ardee. St. Mary’s in Ardee Built was circa 1810 on the site of an earlier church. During the Black Death, in 1349, Archbishop Richard FitzRalph delivered a sermon at Mansfieldstown. Mansfieldtown, the townland name, is derived from the Anglo-Norman Maundeville family who settled there after 1172. #ireland #irish #irishhistory #ancientireland #countylouth #history #mansfieldtown #earlychristianireland #church #historicchurch #louth #stmaryschurch
The Captivating History of St. Mary's Church, Mansfieldtown
0:00 Intro 0:17 Legend of the Jumping Wall 2:05 Inside the church 4:54 Walk around the graveyard 5:03 History of Kildemock Church The Jumping Wall at Kildemock Church is located just outside the town of Ardee in Co. Louth, Ireland. The stone west wall of the ruined church is said to “jumped” about three feet (a little less than a meter) off its foundation yet remained upright although a slight titled angle. Shrouded in local mythology, the story of the jumping wall involves either the weather or paranormal activity. One story has it that the wall moved during a powerful storm in February 1715. The other legend has it that the wall moved away from a grave located a few feet outside the wall of a man who had been excommunicated from the church. A plaque on the wall states: “This wall by its pitch, tilt and position can be seen to have moved three feet from its foundation. Contemporary accounts mention a severe storm in 1715 when the wall was lifted and deposited as it now stands but local tradition states that the wall jumped inwards to exclude the grave of an excommunicated person. Another explanation is the wall’s movement is a hoax and the twin tales were spun to attract pilgrims and tourists to the site. Some sources downplay the idea of a hoax because skilled craftsman would have been needed to create the wall. The gable wall is about 19 feet high, 15 feet wide (17 meters long and 7 meters wide) and three feet thick. The Kildemock church and its surrounding graveyard are ancient. Excavations and restoration took place at the site about 70 years ago. In 1953-54 archaeologists in 1953-54 removed centuries accumulated debris and the true outline of the church became apparent, as did the “jumping” wall. According to one report, in 1953, fragments of a stained glass window, lead and a silver penny with Edward III’s likeness stamped on it were recovered. Edward III was king of England January 1327 until his death in 1377. A bullaun stone is located at the north entrance to the church. A medieval cross grave slab is located near the southwest corner of the structure. The ancient Church of Deomog once stood on this site, according to the Visions of the Past website. https://visionsofthepastblog.com/2013/05/07/kildemock-church-aka-the-jumping-church-co-louth/ It is believed a disciple of St. Patrick and St. Benen founded the early Christian church that stood on the site. After the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century, the parish came under the control of the Knights Templar, and this church was built in the early 14th century in honor of St Catherine. The church remained under the control of the Knights Templar until the order was suppressed in 1312 when ownership passed to the Knights Hospitallers until Henry VIII’s religious suppression of the 1540s. When the church fell into ruins is unknown, though one of the grave slabs in the church is dated 1688. The graveyard around the church ruins appears to have been in continuous use hundreds of years, and there are number of tombstones and grave markers where names and dates have completely eroded away. The graveyard is still in use today. Regardless of the myths surrounding the wall, the site is a beautiful, contemplative place. No one seems in a hurry to dispel any of the myths surrounding the “jumping” wall and the site does indeed attract curious visitors. #ireland #irish #irishhistory #countylouth #ancientireland #jumpingchurch #jumpingwall
The Unsolved Mystery Of The Jumping Wall of Kildemock Church
Knowth Revealed: Ireland’s Enigmatic Neolithic Passage Tomb 00:00 00:44 Largest passage tomb 01:42 passages 02:22 layer of history 02:37 Woodhenge 03:10 Excavtions 04:20 megalithic art 04:38 standing stone cats shadows 05:38 kerb stones Knowth is a Neolithic passage tomb nestled in the Boyne Valley of County Meath, Ireland. This extraordinary archaeological site, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Newgrange, is a testament to the advanced skills and profound spirituality of our ancestors. Knowth is part of the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage Site, a complex of ancient monuments dating back over 5,000 years. The site includes Newgrange and Dowth, making it a mecca for archaeologists and history enthusiasts. Knowth itself comprises a central mound with 18 smaller satellite mounds, making it one of the largest Neolithic complexes in Europe. It is the largest tomb of this type in Ireland. Source: "Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne," UNESCO. The architecture of Knowth is a testament to the Neolithic people's knowledge of astronomy and engineering. The central mound contains two distinct passage tombs, known as Knowth East and Knowth West. These passage tombs are aligned with the winter solstice sunrise, showcasing the Neolithic people's keen understanding of celestial events. Source: "Knowth: A Passage Tomb at Brú na Bóinne," National Monuments Service. One of the most remarkable aspects of Knowth is its intricate megalithic art. The kerb stones that encircle the mounds are adorned with mysterious symbols and designs, including spirals, circles, and concentric triangles. The purpose of these carvings remains a subject of debate among scholars, but they undoubtedly hold spiritual significance. Source: "Knowth," Knowth.com. Over the years, archaeological excavations at Knowth have unearthed a treasure trove of artifacts, shedding light on the daily lives and rituals of the Neolithic people. These finds include pottery, stone tools, and human remains, all of which provide valuable insights into the society that built Knowth. Source: "Knowth - The Archaeological Site," Knowth.com. Knowth, like its neighboring passage tomb, Newgrange, is renowned for its solar alignments. On the winter solstice, a beam of sunlight penetrates the passageway and illuminates the inner chamber, creating a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. This annual event showcases the Neolithic people's connection to the natural world and their reverence for celestial phenomena. Source: "Winter Solstice at Newgrange and Knowth," World Heritage Ireland. Extensive conservation and restoration work have been carried out to ensure that this archaeological wonder remains accessible for future generations to explore and appreciate. Source: "Conservation of the Archaeological Landscape within the Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site," National Monuments Service. Knowth, with its rich history, intricate art, and profound celestial alignments, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and spirituality of Ireland's Neolithic inhabitants Knowth invites us to step back in time and connect with the profound mysteries of our human heritage, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, and the wonders of the past. Sources: 1. "Brú na Bóinne - Archaeological Ensemble of the Bend of the Boyne," UNESCO. [https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/659/](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/659/) 2. "Knowth: A Passage Tomb at Brú na Bóinne," National Monuments Service. [https://www.archaeology.ie/sites/default/files/media/pdf/monuments-in-state-care-meath-2018.pdf](https://www.archaeology.ie/sites/default/files/media/pdf/monuments-in-state-care-meath-2018.pdf) 3. "Knowth," Knowth.com. [http://www.knowth.com/](http://www.knowth.com/) 4. "Knowth - The Archaeological Site," Knowth.com. [http://www.knowth.com/knowth-archaeological-site.htm](http://www.knowth.com/knowth-archaeological-site.htm) 5. "Winter Solstice at Newgrange and Knowth," World Heritage Ireland. [https://www.worldheritageireland.ie/bru-na-boinne/knowth/knowth-winter-solstice/](https://www.worldheritageireland.ie/bru-na-boinne/knowth/knowth-winter-solstice/) 6. "Conservation of the Archaeological Landscape within the Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site," National Monuments Service. [https://www.archaeology.ie/sites/default/files/media/pdfs/NMS_Conservation%20Plan_2018_WEB.pdf](https://www.archaeology.ie/sites/default/files/media/pdfs/NMS_Conservation%20Plan_2018_WEB.pdf) #ireland #irish #irishhistory #knowth #meath #riverboyne #ancientireland #megalithic #archaeology #history #neolithic #neolithicage #Newgrange #dowth #kerbstone
Knowth Revealed: Ireland’s Enigmatic Neolithic Passage Tomb
Monasterboice A Glimpse into Ireland's Ancient Past Nestled in the lush green landscape of County Louth, Ireland, lies the historic site of Monasterboice, a place steeped in the rich tapestry of Irish history and culture. Known for its striking medieval ruins and its iconic high crosses, Monasterboice stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ireland's early Christian period. **A Brief History of Monasterboice** Monasterboice, derived from the Irish "Mainistir Bhuithe," is believed to have been founded in the late 5th century by Saint Buithe, a disciple of Saint Patrick. It quickly grew into one of Ireland's most prominent monastic settlements, becoming a center of religious learning, manuscript production, and art. The site flourished for centuries, and during the 9th and 10th centuries, it was renowned for its illuminated manuscripts, which are believed to have included the famous Book of Dimma. These manuscripts played a crucial role in preserving Irish culture and knowledge during the tumultuous Viking era. **The High Crosses: Masterpieces of Celtic Art** One of the most captivating features of Monasterboice is its collection of high crosses. Two of these crosses, Muiredach's Cross and the West Cross, are celebrated as some of the finest examples of Celtic Christian artistry. Muiredach's Cross, dating back to the 10th century, stands at an imposing 5.5 meters (18 feet) tall. Its intricate carvings depict scenes from the Bible, along with Celtic interlace patterns and ornate motifs. This cross serves as a remarkable fusion of Christian and pre-Christian Celtic artistry, reflecting the unique cultural synthesis of the time. The West Cross, though smaller, is no less impressive. Its detailed carvings depict scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, making it a valuable historical and artistic treasure. **Preservation and Restoration Efforts** Over the centuries, Monasterboice fell into decline, and its once-thriving monastic community dwindled. The site faced challenges from weathering and vandalism, but concerted efforts have been made to preserve and restore its ancient treasures. Local and national authorities, in collaboration with archaeological and historical experts, have undertaken extensive preservation projects. These efforts include conservation work on the high crosses, as well as measures to protect the surrounding landscape. **Visiting Monasterboice Today** Monasterboice is now a protected national monument and a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the evocative ruins, marvel at the high crosses, and appreciate the serene atmosphere that still lingers in this ancient place. In addition to the historical attractions, the site offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland's natural beauty, with its picturesque countryside and lush green fields. **Sources:** 1. Heritage Ireland. (n.d.). Monasterboice. [https://www.heritageireland.ie/en/north-east/monasterboice/](https://www.heritageireland.ie/en/north-east/monasterboice/) 2. Ireland's Content Pool. (n.d.). Monasterboice High Crosses - An Unmissable Attraction on Ireland's Ancient East. [https://www.irelandscontentpool.com/en/media-assets/templates/index/viewAsset/2021/12/14/139942-monasterboice-high-crosses-an-unmissable-attraction-on-irelands-ancient-east](https://www.irelandscontentpool.com/en/media-assets/templates/index/viewAsset/2021/12/14/139942-monasterboice-high-crosses-an-unmissable-attraction-on-irelands-ancient-east) 3. Megalithic Ireland. (n.d.). Monasterboice High Crosses. [http://www.megalithicireland.com/Monasterboice%20High%20Crosses.html](http://www.megalithicireland.com/Monasterboice%20High%20Crosses.html) #ireland #irishhistory #irish #louth #highcross #countylouth #roundtower #earlychristianireland
Monasterboice A Glimpse into Ireland's Early Christian Past
Dromiskin Monastery is a medieval monastery and National Monument located in Dromiskin, County Louth in Ireland. Dromiskin Monastery has the distinction of being repeatedly pillaged. Dromiskin was burned by Vikings in 833 (Annals of Ulster). The Uí Chrítáin were hereditary clergy at Dromiskin and it was pillaged by Domnall ua Néill in 970.[3] The monastery was plundered by Irish in 908, Vikings in 978 and Irish again in 1043. Dromiskin is said to have been founded by Lugaid (d. 515/516), a follower of Saint Patrick and son of Óengus mac Nad Froích, King of Munster, in the 6th century; or by Rónán, son of Bearach in the 7th century. Rónán died in 664 of buide-connaill ("yellow plague," an epidemic illness in ancient Ireland). The site’s 15.25 meter, 50-foot, round tower was constructed in the 9th century. The tower has a conical cap or roof, and a two-order Romanesque doorway 3.7 m (12 ft) above ground. The upper portion was rebuilt around the 12th century and used as a bell tower, and remained in use until the 19th century. The gable and foundation of a 12th century church with 15th century window remain at Dromiskin. The more recent and intact ruins on the site are those of a 19th century Protestant church, St. Margaret’s Chapel. The arms of a high cross (10th century AD) are mounted on a modern shaft (1918). Some accounts associate it with Áed Findliath (High King of Ireland 862–879). One panel is believed to show David presenting Goliath's head to Saul. Also carved on it are dragons and a crucifixion. Dromiskin Monastery is located in the center of Dromiskin village, halfway between the River Fane and River Glyde and 1.5 km (0.93 mi) west of the Irish Sea coast. Links: https://www.jstor.org/stable/25508382?item_view=read_online http://sources.nli.ie/Record/PS_UR_092829 http://www.irishstones.org/place.aspx?p=6 https://www.visitlouth.ie/assets/uploads/documents/HeritageTrailLeaflet-Dromiskin.pdf http://irishantiquities.bravehost.com/louth/dromiskin/dromiskin.html https://www.dromiskintidytowns.com/ https://youtu.be/u2qnCaxxXXQ #Ireland #Irish #IrishHistory #Dromiskin #EarlyChristian #monastery #Louth #CountyLouth #history #Vikings #roundtower #middleages #history
Dromiskin Monastery: Repeatedly Pillaged During The Middle Ages - County Louth, Ireland
The Proleek Dolman portal tomb in County Louth is said to be Ireland’s most photographed megalithic monument. Along with its neighboring wedge tomb, the Giant’s Grave, the Proleek Dolmen is also the only megalithic monument considered a hazard on golf course. Both tombs are located just off the sixth, seventh, 13th and 14th holes of the Ballymascanlon House Hotel golf course. The hotel’s information page for the golf course includes a photo of the Proleek Dolmen. https://www.ballymascanlon.com/golf/information/ According to the Voice From The Dawn website the hotel warns its golfers, "THE DOLMAN PATHWAY Fence which runs on the left hand side of the 6th, 7th, 13th & 14th holes is deemed to be an integral part of the course, the ball must be played as it lies or declared unplayable - Rules 24 Def.C." https://voicesfromthedawn.com/proleek-dolmen/ The dolmen and companion wedge tomb are designed Irish national monuments and can be accessed either by a gravel path that leads to the monuments from the hotel’s parking area or by a shorter footpath from outside the hotel grounds. Visiting the site: https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/proleek-dolmen/ It’s easy to see why the Proleek Dolmen is a favorite of photographers. Proleek Dolmen consists of two portal stones, a lower backstone and a distinctive massive capstone, weighing about 40 tones. It is considered a “classic” dolmen-style portal tomb. The Proleek Dolmen may be astronomically aligned to setting sun on the summer solstice and so the portal entrance faces toward Slieve Gullion mountain. With the exception of the addition of concrete and supporting stone on one of the upright stones, the Proleek Dolmen is said to have changed very little since it was first documented in the 1740s. http://www.ancientireland.org/proleek/index.html Although it receives far less attention than it more famous companion, visitors to the site first encounter the Giant’s Grave. The wedge-shaped gallery tomb, the Giant’s Grave is located about 90 meters (100 yards) to the southeast of the dolmen. Both of these megalithic monuments date from the Neolithic era, around 3000 BCE. Like many Irish megalithic monuments, there are legends associated with the site. The primary mythic legend has it that the dolmen was carried to the site by the Scottish giant Para Buidhe Mór Mhac Seoidin (or Parrah Boug MacShagean; "Great Yellow Para, son of Seoidín"). Para challenged Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill to fight. But Fionn poisoned the nearby . Para drank from the river and died. The Scottish giant was buried in the nearby wedge tomb. Another legend says that if you can toss three consecutive pebbles on top of the capstone without any rolling off you get a wish. Another version of the legend states that whoever manages to land three pebbles atop the capstone will be married within the year. #irish #ireland #proleek #dolmen #megalithic #archeology #ancientireland #louth #countylouth #irishhistory #prehistoric #history #countylouth #Ballymascanlan #BallymascanlanRiver
The Proleek Dolmen - Ireland’s Most Photographed Megalith
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