archaeological meath

Famous as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, the Hill of Tara has been an important site since the Stone Age, when a passage tomb was constructed. Tara was a political and religious centre in early Christian times and though it declined in importance as Christianity spread in Ireland, the site still retains its air of mysticism.
Today the ruins are sadly deserted, poignant reminders of what once was, but from atop the hill the visitor can still experience some of the magic which fi...

This bridge is located on the Kells-Moynalty Road and spans the River Blackwater. The sturcture dates from pre-Norman times (1169 AD), a fact confirmed by the design of two of the arches. The name of the bridge derives from the family name Mape or de Malpas, who owned the land around here before the English Civil War (1642-49)....

This is the last remaining gate of 5 in a ruined section of the town walls which were built by Geoffrey de Geneville. Access by permission only....

The 'Royal County' of Meath boasts a dramatic history and proud heritage that no other country can match. Man has settled here for over 8,000 years and everywhere one turns one can see surviving monuments and relics scattered profusely beside the rolling rivers and on the lush plains. Formerly one of the five historic provinces of Ireland, it was from here that the ancient roads of Ireland radiated, spreading Royal Meath's influence and affluence to all the corners of Ireland....

Dowth is the third of the great passage graves in the royal cemetery at Bru na Boinne. Similar in size to Newgrange an Knowth (85 metres in diameter and 15m in height), it has unfortunately suffered considerably more weathering and erosin than its neighbours over the years. Dowth contains two modest passages, both situated in the western part of the mound and located about 20 metres apart. The more northerly tomb is the most impressive; it is of cruciform design and off one of the side cham...

"For the late Stone Age, Knowth was one of Europe's gretest public buildings. To describe it as a massive and majestic masterpiece that reflected the pride and pomp of contemporary society is not an exaggeration"....