The Loughcrew cairns, Oldcastle, Co. Meath, Ireland, are approximately 5,400 years old (Older than the pyramids of Egypt). Each Spring and Autumn Equinox the rising sun lights the passage chamber of Cairn T, the rays hitting the highly decorated back stone.
Many stories are connected to this prehistoric site including that of the Cailleach or witch/goddess. According to the Legend, the Loughcrew cairns were formed by the Cailleach throwing rocks from her apron, jumping from hill to hill. It is said that she tripped and died and is buried on Patrickstown, one of the hills. The area, known today as Sliabh na Caillí or Mountain of the Witch, reflects this age-old story.
The main cairn at Brú na Bóinne, Newgrange, County Meath, is famous for how the sun enters its long passage on the Winter Solstice and lights the innermost chamber. A temple and place of burial for our ancestors over 5000 years ago, it is one of our most famous and sacred sites.
from an original painting by Margaret McKenna
