Must Visit: The Boyne Palace in Co. Meath, is an important historic sites and monuments in Ireland, and is a designated World Heritage Site. Newgrange was built about 5,000 years ago. These tombs are older than both Stonehenge in England and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Its worldwide famous for a spectacular event every year on December 21, also known as the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year. The tomb was built in such a way that on this day, it is illuminated by a narrow beam of sunlight which shines through a specially designed roof box. Those who have seen this say its an unforgettable experience. The tomb itself was almost lost to history itself. It was sunk into the ground for over 4,000 years, only rediscovered in 1699 when workers carried away building stones for the landowner. As they removed the stones they discovered the entrance. But they left it undisturbed as they thought it was a cave. Then, in 1962, archaeologists began to investigate the sinking mound. Newgrange was then excavated and restored to its former glory. The Hill of Tara is also in Co. Meath. An archaeological complex, it consists of a number of ancient monuments, including the Stone of Destiny, the Fort of the Kings and the Mound of the Hostages. Located on the River Boyne, it is said to be the actual seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Nearby is the site of the Battle of The Boyne, one of the key dates in Irish history, in which protestant William of Orange defeated Catholic James II in 1690. Over 220,000 people around the world visit the Newgrange every year.
Posted on: Tue, 29 Jul 2014 16:50:30 +0000
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