The world-famous Newgrange, the most visited archaeological monument in all of Ireland, is the inspiration for a large part of the jewelry collection from
Rings from Ireland.
It’s not surprising, as this mythical monument is located close to the headquarters of
Rings from Ireland in the heart of County Meath, just beyond the River Boyne.
Newgrage, now designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a must-see when visiting Ireland, as it is one of the best examples of a passage tomb in the British Isles. Built in the Neolithic period, circa 3200 BC, it is actually older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids.
Newgrange is part of a complex of monuments built along a bend of the River Boyne known collectively as Brú na Bóinne. The other two principal monuments are Knowth (the largest) and Dowth, but throughout this very important and noteworthy region there are as many as 35 smaller mounds.
Archaeologists originally classified Newgrange as a passage tomb, however Newgrange is now actually recognised to be much more than a passage tomb. Experts have been classifying it as an ancient temple, as it has such ceremonial importance and has such significance across astrology, spirituality and religious life.
Newgrange is a large mound that covers an area of over one acre. It is secured at the base by 97 kerbstones, some of which are richly decorated with very significant megalithic art. The 19 metre long inner passage leads to a cruciform chamber with a corbelled roof. The amount of time and labour invested in the construction of Newgrange is of particular interest to historians, as it indicates that there was a well-organized society with specialised groups responsible for different aspects of the creation of this masterpiece.
Breathtaking Winter Solstice
The winter solstice has a particular significance and relationship with Newgrange. At dawn, from December 19th to 23rd, a narrow beam of light comes through the roof-box and reaches the floor of the chamber, gradually extending to the rear of the chamber. As the sun rises higher, the beam widens within the chamber so that the whole room becomes dramatically illuminated. This breathtaking event lasts for 17 minutes, beginning around 9am. Only a privileged few can witness this every year and the event is so sought-after around the world that an annual lottery is held to determine who can be present to see the light emerge from the darkness.
Newgrange’s accuracy as a time-telling device is absolutely astounding considering the date that it was built. This was 500 years before the Great Pyramids were constructed and more than 1,000 years before
Stonehenge.
It is thought that the builders intended to mark the beginning of the New Year and it was also intended to be a symbol of the victory of life over death.
This extraordinary ancient tomb has been the inspiration for much artistic and scientific endeavor over the centuries. Take a browse through the collections at
Rings from Ireland where the influence of this truly extraordinary place comes to life.