Kinbane Castle, constructed in the 16th century, stands on the rugged cliffs of Northern Ireland’s Antrim coastline. It’s rugged location, and a long path of steps from the visitor parking lot, means that it’s not going to be overrun with hoards of tourists. It’s a quieter experience with spectacular views. Trekking down the pathway to…
Monasterboice, or “Mainistir Bhuithe” in Irish (Monastery Bhuithe), build in the 5th century, is associated with St. Buithe, the site’s founder. The high crosses and tower were added in the 9th and 10th centuries. This is one my favorite sites for the West Cross is the tallest high cross in Ireland. No tickets are necessary….
Newgrange Passage Tomb is over 5000 years old, older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids. There are intricate carvings here and Newgrange is precisely aligned with the Winter Solstice sunrise. On that day, sunlight shines down the passage and illuminates the central chamber. The guide performs a somewhat cheesy simulation with a lightbulb on the…
The Fourknocks Passage tomb dates back 5000 years ago to the Neolithic period. While less well-known compared to Newgrange, there are aspects of Fourknocks that make it better and worth a trip. Fourknocks comes from the Irish term, “Fuair Cnocs” meaning “Cold Hills”. Its unique pear-shaped design features a wide central chamber with distinctive carvings….