Past Events 2006

Newgrange's Winter Solstice on the 21st of December (the shortest day of the year)

Rediscovered by Professor MJ O' Kelly in 1963 the Winter Solstice is now a world famous event.  On the 21st of December which is the shortest day of the year, a shaft of light enters through the roofbox and channels its way to the back of the burial chamber. The alignment of the roof box was deliberate and shows the builders were familiar with astronomical cycles. It truly is one extraordinary piece of astronomy and engineering by the Neolithic farmers. Unfortunately due to the popular demand of this event a lottery is held to witness this event. This December, 2006 all 25 places are taken.

Newgrange (c 3,200 B.C.) is the best-known monument of the UNESCO designated World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne, predating the ancient pyramids by 400 years and Stonehenge by 1000. The structure was built as a resting place for the dead. The decoration of the chamber is exquisite featuring the triple spiral and curvilinear design.