Newgrange: A Journey into the Past
I've always been fascinated by the ancient world, so when I had the opportunity to visit Newgrange, a 5,000-year-old passage tomb in Ireland, I jumped at it. I was not disappointed - Newgrange is a truly unique and awe-inspiring place.
The passage tomb is located in County Meath, about 50 kilometers north of Dublin. It was built around 3200 BC by Neolithic farmers, and it is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the world.
I arrived at Newgrange on a sunny morning and was immediately struck by its size and grandeur. The mound is about 12 meters high and 80 meters in diameter, and it is surrounded by a ring of standing stones.
I joined a guided tour and we entered the passage tomb through a narrow, low entrance. The passage is about 19 meters long and leads to a central chamber. The chamber is about 6 meters in diameter and 6 meters high, and it is decorated with intricate carvings.
I was most impressed by the fact that Newgrange is aligned with the winter solstice. On the morning of the winter solstice, a beam of sunlight enters the passage tomb and illuminates the chamber. This is a truly amazing sight to see, and it is something that I will never forget.
Newgrange is a fascinating place that offers a unique glimpse into the past. If you are ever in Ireland, I highly recommend visiting Newgrange. You won't be disappointed.