Newgrange Images

Newgrange is a monumental Neolithic passage tomb located in County Meath, Ireland, within the bend of the River Boyne. Its position in the landscape appears deliberate, combining visibility, elevation, and proximity to water. The monument dominates its surroundings and was clearly intended to be seen and approached with ceremony.

The construction of Newgrange dates to around 3200 BC, placing it firmly in the early Neolithic period. This makes it significantly older than both Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Its survival over five millennia highlights the extraordinary skill of its builders.

Newgrange forms part of the wider Brú na Bóinne complex, one of the most important prehistoric landscapes in Europe. The area contains dozens of monuments from different periods, showing that this valley retained ritual importance for thousands of years.

The mound itself is immense, covering roughly one acre and rising to a height of over 12 metres. An estimated 200,000 tonnes of stone were used in its construction. This scale implies a large, organised community capable of long-term planning.

A ring of 97 kerbstones surrounds the base of the mound, acting as both a retaining wall and a symbolic boundary. Sone of these stones are decorated with intricate carvings. The kerbstones likely marked a sacred perimeter rather than serving a purely structural role.

The mound is faced with white quartz stones sourced from the Wicklow Mountains, over 70 kilometres away. These stones would have gleamed in sunlight. Their placement at the front of the monument created a striking visual effect.

Additional stones used in the structure came from the Cooley Mountains and local riverbeds. Transporting these materials required careful organisation and cooperation. This demonstrates that Newgrange was a communal project rather than an isolated tomb.

Brú na Bóinne DVD Trailer

Private Tour to Newgrange, Knowth, and the Boyne Valley

Embark on a journey through time and heritage with our private tour to Newgrange, Knowth, and other captivating sites nestled in the enchanting Boyne Valley. Immerse yourself in the rich history and mystique of these World Heritage sites, where ancient wonders come to life.

Newgrange and Knowth, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites, stand as testament to the ingenuity of our ancestors. Dating back over 5,000 years, these Neolithic passage tombs are older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Step inside the chambers of Newgrange, where the winter solstice illuminates a narrow passage, casting an ethereal light on the ancient carvings within. Explore Knowth, adorned with megalithic art, and unravel the mysteries of a bygone era.

Visit the megalithic passage tombs at Newgrange and Knowth with the on-site guide. These are UNESCO World Heritage sites so you will be joining others on the official tour. Beyond the renowned Newgrange and Knowth, our private tour takes you on an intimate exploration of lesser-known gems in the Boyne Valley.

Leave the logistics to us as you embark on a stress-free exploration of the Boyne Valley. Our private tours ensure a personalised and comfortable experience from the moment we pick you up at your accommodation to the time we drop you back.