Knowth - Secrets from the grave

Photographs: David Sleator, The Irish Times 2008

Prof. George Eogan at Knowth World Heritage Site

Knowth Satellite Mounds

Knowth Kerbstone | One of 127 large stones that encircle the base of the mound

Nearly 50 years ago, archaeologists began excavating at Knowth and the site has yet to give up all its secrets.

'The first day we went in, we went up the passage. When we got in towards the end, the passage became difficult, but there seemed to be a void at the top and I crawled up with a flashlight and walked until I came to the end of the passage. I flashed the lamp around and saw this massive void. Main Article...

Historical Knowth and its Hinterland, edited by FJ Byrne, William Jenkins, Gillian Kenny and Catherine Swift, with an introduction by George Eogan, is volume four in the Excavations at Knowth series. Published by the Royal Irish Academy in association with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

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This tri-spiral motif is carved on a stone inside the chamber at Newgrange. The carefully worked, flowing lines show a high level of skill and planning by the builders. Although its original meaning is unknown, the tri-spiral remains one of the most recognisable and striking carvings at Newgrange, offering a direct connection to the people who created and used the monument.

Books

Knowth, a clear and accessible guide.

Excavations at Knowth Series - Seven Volumes

Knowth and the passage-tombs of Ireland.

More Ancient Ireland books from Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.