The Hill of Tara
Tara the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland is constantly revealing more of its secrets. A vast archaeological site it is being investigated using non intrusive geophysical surveys which have revealed amongst others a huge wooden henge much bigger then Stonehenge measuring some 170 metres in diameter. This monument would have been similar in size to Croke Park and had a huge impact on a skyline already visible for miles. It enclosed the Rath of the Synods, the mound of the hostages and several standing stones including the Lia Fail or Stone of Destiny an ancient coronation stone which was believed to roar three times when the true king of Ireland touched it.....
All that is visible in Tara today, is a series of grassy mounds, so the visitor may find it difficult to comprehend the important of this ancient and sacred site, but you will feel it. The sheer scale and the uninterrupted views over the surrounding several counties being the first indication of the strategic positioning of this ancient monument believed to date back to 2500bc. There is an audio visual representation in a former church on the site which will help to explain the history and mythology. Or else ask the nice people in the book and coffee shops outside who know more about it then anyone else and are always keen to talk to enthusiasts. It may take a leap of faith to conjure up the big picture and it is certainly not a site for the sceptics or the unimaginative but terribly rewarding for anyone with an inkling of Celtic soul.....
10 Other things to do and see near Tara....
1 Bellinter House
stay at this lovely old country house hotel, and be treated like a high king yourself, its the last word in comfort and relaxation.
2 Newgrange
predating the pyramids this 5000 year old megalithic structure is precised aligned to the winter soltice
3 Battle of the Boyne interpretative centre on the actual battlefield site where 35,000 soldiers were killed in 1610.
4 Slane village, check out the four large houses opposite each other at the crossroads, originally belonged to four sisters.
5 Slane Castle peep over the green gates to see the site of the legendry open air rock concerts run by Lord Henry Mountcharles.
6 Cross the bridge below the town, park into the right where you can enjoy a walk or a picnic on the banks of the river Boyne.
7 Or climb the hill of Slane where the first pascal fire was lit by St Patrick.
8 Mellifont abbey 12th century Cistercian abbey with octagonal lavabo, retrace the footsteps of 800 years as you cross the threshold stone.
9 Monasterboice See the 17ft tall high cross of Muirdeach with its intricate carvings.
10 Causey FarmFordstown, Navan. Fun model farm with loads of different events including giant bubble blowing and bog hopping.
For more information on the Hill of Tara please click here
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