Part 2 of 3: Ireland's Top 10 Prehistoric Sites: Loughcrew, Hill of Tara, Poulnabrone Dolmen

Hill of Tara. Cr: https://www.discoverireland.ie/Arts-Culture-Heritage/hill-of-tara/9805

Several years ago we took a trip to Ireland and saw some incredible cultural, historic and  
archaeological sites. Since we find them fascinating, I'm presenting a really great article from Tripsavvy.com about 10 prehistoric sites. This is part 2 of 3.

Most Impressive Megalithic and Prehistoric Sites of Ireland

BY BERND BIEGE
Updated 06/03/19

04 of 10 Loughcrew
What is Loughcrew? Ireland's second largest megalithic cemetery.

Where is Loughcrew? Just south of Oldcastle (County Meath).

Why is Loughcrew important? Loughcrew has a number of passage tombs with solar alignments and intriguing rock-art.

What can you expect at Loughcrew? Several tombs in complete or incomplete states - the keys to the main tomb are available (see local signs). The rock-art is amazing ... but the climb from the car park is steep!

Why should you visit Loughcrew? The tombs are accessible for free and simply spectacular. The breathtaking view makes up for the equally breathtaking climb.

Hill of Tara Map. Cr: MythicalIreland.com

05 of 10  The Hill of Tara 

What is the Hill of Tara? Reputed to be the site where Ireland's High Kings held court.

Where is the Hill of Tara? Northwest of Dublin.

Why is the Hill of Tara important? Tara was an important place for ages as a royal seat (or ceremonial place), closely connected to Saint Patrick.

What will you see at the Hill of Tara? Apart from the visitor center in a disused church, there are extensive earthworks to be explored.

Why should you visit the Hill of Tara? As it played such a central role in Irish history and has many legendary and mythical connotations, Tara us a must for anyone interested in Ireland's past.

06 of 10  Poulnabrone Dolmen

What is the Poulnabrone Dolmen?
A massive erection in the middle of nowhere, this is the prototypical dolmen.

Where is the Dolmen?  in the middle of the Burren (County Clare).

Why is the Poulnabrone Dolmen important? This is one of the most impressive monuments in the area and simply a typical example of a dolmen.

What will you see at Poulnabrone? Some standing stones with a capping stone resting on them. Sounds like not much, really - until you realize that the capping stone weighs as much as a tank.