The Oldest Places to Visit in Ireland
Friday 27th September 2024
Looking for a road trip with a twist? Ireland is a country steeped in ancient history, with landmarks that date back thousands of years. From prehistoric tombs to medieval ruins, the oldest places in Ireland offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you’re a history buff or just love a good road trip, these ancient sites should be on your travel bucket list. In this blog, we’ll explore some of Ireland’s oldest and most significant historical spots, perfect for a road trip with Easirent.
Newgrange, County Meath (Built: 3200 BC)
Newgrange is a prehistoric passage tomb located in County Meath, Ireland, and is one of the most significant ancient structures in the world. Built around 3200 BC, Newgrange predates both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. It was constructed during the Neolithic period, likely as a ceremonial or burial site, and is part of the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tomb is renowned for its sophisticated construction, particularly its alignment with the Winter Solstice. Each year, on December 21st, the rising sun illuminates the inner chamber of the tomb, showcasing the builders’ advanced understanding of astronomy. Newgrange’s mound is surrounded by 97 large kerbstones, many of which are engraved with intricate Neolithic carvings. These artistic designs, combined with the tomb’s function and astronomical precision, suggest it held immense spiritual and cultural significance for Ireland’s ancient people.
The Hill of Tara, County Meath (Dating back to 4000 BC)
The Hill of Tara, located in County Meath, is one of the most significant archaeological and mythological sites in Ireland. Dating back to around 4000 BC, it was once the ceremonial and political center of ancient Ireland. Known as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, Tara was considered a sacred place where kings were crowned, laws were passed, and rituals performed. The site is rich in archaeological features, including burial mounds, standing stones, and earthworks, such as the Mound of the Hostages, a Neolithic passage tomb. One of its most famous landmarks is the Lia Fáil, or “Stone of Destiny,” which was believed to roar when touched by the rightful king during coronation ceremonies. Steeped in mythology, the Hill of Tara is said to have been a gateway to the Otherworld and holds a deep cultural and spiritual significance in Irish history.
Skellig Michael, County Kerry (Founded: 6th Century AD)
Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a remote island located off the coast of County Kerry, Ireland. It was settled by Christian monks in the 6th century, who built a monastic settlement at the island’s peak, nearly 700 feet above sea level. The monks chose Skellig Michael for its isolation and challenging terrain, seeking a life of solitude and devotion. The monastic complex includes beehive-shaped stone huts, or clocháns, where the monks lived, prayed, and worked, as well as stone stairways carved into the cliffs. Skellig Michael remained a spiritual outpost for centuries before being abandoned in the 12th century. Its dramatic location, coupled with its historical significance, has made it one of Ireland’s most remarkable and revered sites. The island gained international fame as a filming location for the Star Wars films, further highlighting its mystical and otherworldly atmosphere.
Dún Aonghasa, Aran Islands (Founded: 1100 BC)
Dún Aonghasa is an ancient stone fort perched dramatically on the edge of a 100-metre cliff on Inis Mór, the largest of the Aran Islands in County Galway. Dating back to around 1100 BC, Dún Aonghasa is one of the finest examples of a prehistoric promontory fort in Europe. The semi-circular structure, with its massive stone walls and defensive features such as chevaux-de-frise (sharp limestone rocks placed upright to deter attackers), was likely a center of power and ceremony. Its location, overlooking the wild Atlantic Ocean, adds to its mystique, offering stunning views and a palpable connection to Ireland’s ancient past. While its exact purpose remains debated, it’s believed to have been both a defensive fort and a significant cultural site for the island’s inhabitants. Today, Dún Aonghasa is one of Ireland’s most iconic archaeological sites, attracting visitors from around the world.
The Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary (Founded: 5th Century AD)
The Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, is one of Ireland’s most iconic historical sites, located in County Tipperary. The site’s history dates back to the 4th century, and it was once the seat of the Kings of Munster. According to legend, it was at the Rock of Cashel that St. Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century. In the 12th century, the site transitioned from a royal fortress to a religious complex, and many of the current structures were built, including Cormac’s Chapel and the Cathedral. The Rock is a spectacular limestone outcrop, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Its strategic and symbolic significance, combined with its well-preserved medieval architecture, make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Ireland’s rich history and spiritual heritage.
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, County Sligo (Founded: 3700 BC)
Clonmacnoise, located on the banks of the River Shannon in County Offaly, is one of Ireland’s most important early Christian monastic sites. Founded by St. Ciarán in 544 AD, Clonmacnoise quickly grew into a major center of religion, learning, and craftsmanship. Over the centuries, it became a burial site for kings and a hub for scholars and artists. The site is renowned for its stunning high crosses, round towers, and ancient churches, including Temple Finghin and Temple Connor. Among its most famous features is the Cross of the Scriptures, a beautifully carved high cross that stands as a testament to the artistry of the early Irish monks. Although the site was repeatedly attacked by Vikings and later by the Anglo-Normans, its ruins remain a powerful symbol of Ireland’s Christian heritage and historical significance. Today, Clonmacnoise is a peaceful and evocative place, offering visitors a direct link to Ireland’s early medieval past.
Clonmacnoise, County Offaly (Founded: 544 AD)
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, located in County Sligo, is one of the largest and oldest megalithic cemeteries in Ireland, dating back to 3700 BC. This sprawling complex contains more than 30 passage tombs and burial monuments, making it a significant site for understanding Ireland’s Neolithic history and burial practices. The most prominent tomb, known as Listoghil, features a large cairn and is believed to be the central monument of the cemetery. Carrowmore was used as a burial ground by the ancient inhabitants of the region, and its tombs are aligned with solar and lunar events, suggesting a deep connection between early Irish people and celestial cycles. Visitors to Carrowmore can explore the ancient stone circles and learn about the prehistoric communities that once lived and honored their dead here, making it a fascinating journey into Ireland’s ancient past.
Ireland’s ancient sites are spread across some of the country’s most scenic and remote areas, making them ideal destinations for a road trip. From the prehistoric tombs of Newgrange to the windswept cliffs of Dún Aonghasa and the spiritual centers of Clonmacnoise and The Rock of Cashel, these historical treasures offer a deep connection to Ireland’s past. Exploring them by car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, stopping to enjoy the landscapes along the way. With Easirent, you can rent a comfortable, reliable vehicle that ensures you reach these fascinating sites with ease, making your journey through Ireland’s rich history as smooth as it is unforgettable.
