Carrowmore Megalithic Tombs, Sligo

Under the watchful eye of Queen Maeve’s grave on the summit of Knocknarea, we arrived at the Carrowmore Megalithic Tombs in Co. Sligo. What makes Carrowmore so remarkable is that it is the largest cemetery of megalithic tombs in Ireland. The site is managed by the Office of Public Works, and a small but informative visitor centre welcomes guests.

Today, around 30 monuments survive, though it’s believed that as many as 60 tombs once stood here. Sadly, many were lost during the 18th and 19th centuries due to quarrying and field clearing. The visitor centre opens from March to October, offering both guided tours and self‑guided multilingual options.
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Most of the surviving tombs are satellite tombs, arranged in a great circle around the central monument, Listoghil (Cairn 51). These smaller tombs typically consist of a central megalithic burial chamber surrounded by a stone circle, creating a landscape that feels both ancient and deeply atmospheric.

Cairn 51, also known as Listoghil, has been carefully restored and stands as the most impressive monument at Carrowmore, framed beautifully by Benbulben in the distance. Erected around 3500 BC, this central cairn measures an impressive 34 metres in diameter. At its heart lies a distinctive box‑shaped chamber, notable for containing the only megalithic art discovered at Carrowmore. It’s a powerful focal point within the cemetery, drawing together the surrounding satellite tombs and offering a striking glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.​

We met the lovely Marian, Ellen and Joanna who were visiting the tombs as well. Marian used to run the Red Cottage B&B in Sligo town where now it is her daughter Karen who runs this busy B&B (https://www.redcottagesligo.com/). Her friend Ellen was over for a visit from Tipperary where Joanna was over from Poland to visit some friends.
Sligo is worth a visit, and if you are interested in megalithic history, you won't be disappointed with all the avaliable tourist attractions... ( www.choosesligo.com)