The winter solstice (21 December) marks the shortest day of the year and, while it is barely noticed in the modern world, in prehistoric Ireland it was a highly important event marking the turning point of the year and the coming rebirth of the land.
The many prehistoric monuments on the island that are aligned with the rising sun on the winter solstice are proof that the event was significant culturally and spiritually to the ancient peoples including the Celts who arrived in Ireland about 500 BC.
The best known of these monuments is Newgrange, part of the World Heritage Property of Brú na Bóinne in County Meath. The almost intact Neolithic tomb is over 5,000 years old and on the winter solstice its inner chamber is illuminated by the rising sun. The dramatic phenomenon reflects a marvel of early astronomy and construction and demand to see it is so high that tickets are allocated via a lottery system.
However, Newgrange is not the only place to witness such an event. At Knockroe passage tomb in County Kilkenny, visitors can see a dual winter solstice alignment, with the eastern passageway aligned with the rising sun, and the western passageway aligned to the setting sun. The site is free to enter, and people gather at both dawn and sunset to watch the sunlight enter and light up the tomb.
Ireland’s most sacred place, and the seat of its ancient high kings, is the Hill of TaraOpens in County Meath, and here people gather informally to celebrate the winter solstice as a community. Usually there is music and guided meditations as people seek to reflect and reconnect with nature.
Loughcrew cairns in County Meath are not aligned with the winter solstice but are aligned with the spring and autumn equinoxes when the chambers are illuminated at sunrise. These impressive tombs are located on what is known as the Hills of the Witch and guided tours are available to explore the history and spiritual significance of the site. You can even camp or glamp near the tomb complex.
The link between archaeology and the stars can also be explored in the Stars and Stones experience in County Tyrone. This guided tour begins at the prehistoric Beaghmore Stones and weaves together storytelling, archaeology and astronomy to explain the significance of the site. The tour then moves to OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory where you can look at the stars through a state-of-the-art telescope. Book on or around the winter solstice to see the celestial patterns that the ancient Celts would have observed and celebrated.
Across the island of Ireland winter solstice events mark the date as a time of reflection. Continuing 2024’s year-long celebration of St Brigid, Brigid 1500 in County Kildare presents a Christian interpretation in Winter Solstice – Turning towards the Light. And among other events is a winter solstice sound healing experience at The Sound Spa, County Antrim.
