Newgrange, where our Neolithic ancestors, through the alignment of the monument, were able to capture the turning of the year and the sense of renewal and rebirth.
This year on December 21st, for the first time in five or six years, it was a sunny solstice morning and the sun lit up the inner chamber so the true wonder of the place could be experienced and enjoyed.
Newgrange was built about 3,100 B. C. so older than the pyramids and about 1,000 years before Stonehenge an about 30,000 people apply (for one of the 50 places available) to witness the solstice from inside the tomb.
Though I have been to Newgrange many times I have never been there for December 21st so this is a date in my calendar for 2014. Watching the scenes outside the monument just over a week ago was my reason for making this decision.
Travel to Ireland in December may not be convenient for many of you but in most Travel Plans itineraries I include or suggest a visit to Newgrange.

Over the coming days I will write a detailed note on Newgrange and the Boyne Valley so you may understand a little more why I encourage a visit.

The picture at the top is taken in early December at sunset in Knockainey.