Newgrange Stone Age Passage Tomb from the Newgrange Visitor Center
The experience of going into a five thousand year old tomb was quite special. The large structure of the Newgrange Stone Age Passage Tomb was very deceiving as the interior space was actually very, very small. It basically consists of a passage to the center of the tomb, hence the name passage tomb. Even more fascinating was that how the builders of the tomb incorporated a roof box at the entrance to allow a beam of the winter solstice sun to enter the tomb only for that special day. It was also fascinating to know that the beam would hit at precisely that spot to illuminate the tomb for a few beautiful minutes.
Back at the Newgrange Visitor Center
It was way past the winter solstice when I visited so there was no chance see this magical moment. However, the tour does include a simulation of the winter solstice sun as it “rises” and shines that golden beam of light. The lights were naturally turned off, and there was an artificial light that shone from the entrance and it was indeed magical. I would love to be able to see the real thing myself but slots are limited for this special event. The tomb is illuminated for a few days around the winter solstice but you can’t just walk in a see the light show. Slots for the event are raffled off to lucky participants every year. If that wasn’t difficult enough, given the fickle Irish weather, there is no guarantee that there will any sun at all that day. However, our guide told us that they had a very successful winter solstice that year. Maybe next time I can join the raffle and try my luck.
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