County Meath is home to several fascinating megalithic sites, including Fourknocks, located near Ardcath. This site is about 16km from Newgrange, but far less visited. As a result, you can take your time and stay inside as long as you like.
Fourknocks is a 5,000-year-old passage tomb that was excavated by the National Museum in the early 1950s. The discovered artefacts and remains were taken to the museum, but visitors to the site can touch and photograph the ancient abstract art decorations.
The key for the entrance door to Fourknocks Passage Tomb can be obtained from Mr. Fintan White +35318354722 before 6pm; he lives over a mile from the site. Directions to the house (Eircode A42 FN40) are signposted from Fourknocks to the west. A refundable deposit is required, but entrance is free.
You will be glad you went off the beaten path to this unique ancient spiritual centre.
- This ancient tomb once held dozens of human remains of all ages and sexes.
- The mysterious carvings include a 3-foot-high "smiley face", one of the oldest depictions of a human face.
- On a clear day you can see as far as the Mourne Mountains from the top of the mound.
- Take your time inside and stay as long as you like.
Locals say if you walk around the mound 3 times clockwise you will have good luck.
