Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetry

Sited on the highest hilltops in County Meath, the Loughcrew megalithic Cemetery are a group of Neolithic passage tombs near Oldcastle.
These tombs were built by Neolithic societies, Ireland's first farmers around 3000 BC. 

From the carpark, there is a short but steep climb through fields towards the top of the hill, so suitable footwear is required. Also, wheelchair access is not available. Although lacking a defined path, it is easy to navigate to the cairns as the route is highlighted by markers. 

Traces of about 25 tombs survive at Loughcrew with Cairn T one of the largest in the complex. Located on Carnbane East, this cairn is a classic example with a cross-shaped chamber covered by a mound of stones or cairn that is 35m in diameter. On the equinox days ( March 21st and September 21st), sunlight enters the tomb at dawn and illuminates a series of radial line patterns which are carved on varies stones within the tomb. Where the tomb is closed, you can see some of these beautiful decorated stones at the entrance as well.

Although these monuments are called tombs, these monuments are unlikely to have been built primeraly for burial, but must have served as a focal point for a tribe as well. On the slopes of Patrickstown is cairn X which includes one of the most accomplished design in passage tomb art, a rayed circle. The views from the hill over County Meath's landscape is just fabulous, especially when you visit the tombs on a sunny day.