Ancient Irish Site Basking in Winter Solstice Glory
This morning, thousands of hopefuls, including a lucky few from as far away as South Carolina, converged on Newgrange in County Meath, Ireland, to witness a breathtaking celestial event: the Winter Solstice sunrise illuminating the 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb.
Only ten individuals, selected via lottery, were granted access to the inner chamber to experience the sun’s rays directly piercing the “roof box,” a specially designed opening above the entrance. “Depending on the weather,” explains one expert,”17 minutes of direct sunlight can enter the Newgrange monument and illuminate the central chamber.”
For those unable to attend in person, a live stream, a collaboration between the Office of Public works and the Department of Heritage, aired on the RTÉ News Channel, offering a global audience a glimpse into this ancient spectacle. Hundreds more gathered outside the monument, celebrating the solstice with music and dance, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year.
The Winter Solstice, occurring around December 21st each year, marks the sun’s farthest southerly point, appearing to “stop” for approximately three days before resuming its northward journey. This year’s peak moment was at 9:20 AM Irish time.
Met Éireann, the Irish Meteorological Service, predicted dry but cloudy conditions, leaving lottery winners from across Ireland and the US hoping for a break in the clouds to fully appreciate the event. “We’re hoping for a break in the clouds,” said one lottery winner from Cork,”This is a once-in-a-lifetime prospect.”
A 5,000-Year-Old Mystery
Newgrange, along with Dowth and Knowth, forms the Brú na Bóinne complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These structures, built around 3200 BC, are among the most meaningful Neolithic sites globally, boasting the largest collection of megalithic art in western Europe. The precise purpose of Newgrange remained a mystery until 1967, when archaeologist Dr. Michael O’Kelly confirmed the sun’s alignment with the “roof box,” illuminating the burial chamber.
The accuracy of this 5,000-year-old astronomical alignment is astounding. “Just how exactly our ancestors were able to accurately track the passage of the sun remains a mystery,” notes one expert, highlighting the remarkable feat of engineering and astronomical knowledge.
For many, the Winter Solstice at Newgrange represents a symbolic pause, a moment of reflection before the return of longer days and the promise of spring. The event’s significance resonates globally, connecting people to ancient traditions and the enduring power of nature.
For those who missed the live broadcast,you can find recordings on the RTÉ news Channel,RTÉ Player,rte.ie, and the OPW website.
