Pre-historic Sites in Ireland

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When people talk about the colourful history of Ireland, they may not be aware just how much history there is to explore. The truth is that Irish history goes back even farther than most people think. Even before the Celts arrived sometime around 500 BC, there were people inhabiting Ireland. It is believed that the first of these arrived some 9000 years ago, and subsisted as farmers until about 2000 BC. In addition to the remnants of settlements left by these people, there is also evidence of the early influence of Christianity in Ireland. There are some beautiful monastic ruins all over the island, as well as abbeys in much better shape, and all of them are well worth a look.

As to which specific sites you should visit, it depends largely on your area of interest. One exceedingly popular site is the tomb passage in Newgrange, County Meath. This is reportedly older even than the Pyramids, and draws hundred of thousands of tourists each year. Covering over an acre and featuring some fine examples of ancient art, the tomb passage is a memorable site.

Also of great interest are the Beaghmore Stones in County Tyrone, seven stone circles whose original purpose is still much debated, even seventy years after their initial discovery. If you want to look at something a bit more impressive height-wise you may be drawn to Kells, a tower originally built as a defence against Viking invasion.

Some other sites worth visiting are the Navan Fort in County Armagh, or the Great Mount at Knowth, County Meath. Most enthusiasts come to Ireland already having a firm idea of what sites they want to visit, but for those more casual visitors, help is available in-country as well. Local county tourism centres can help you learn which pre-historic sites are available in their area, and will be only too happy to let you know how the history of each site has shaped what Ireland has become today.

If you plan to spend any time driving in Ireland, you are bound to see and experience numerous historical sites unique to Ireland. For more information about renting a car in Ireland, or about any of our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.