Tara Lecture Series 2008

Hill of Tara Visitor Centre

Wednesdays in July at 8.00pm

Celebrating 200 Years of Thomas Moore's Melodies

Wednesday July 9th

The Harp that Once

Thomas Moore and his Irish Melodies

Mary O'Donnell

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance

University of Limerick

Wednesday July 16th

The History of the Harp as an Irish Symbol

Teresa O'Donnell

Wednesday July 23rd

The Harp in Irish Mythology and Folklore

Miceal Ross

Storyteller and Folklorist - An Saor Ollscoil, Dublin

Wednesday July 30th

A Musical History of the Irish Harp

Mary O Donnell

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance - University of Limerick

Tara Summer Solstice Sunset 2008
Summer Solstice Sunset on the Hill of Tara - 21st June 2008

The Hill of Tara

The Hill of Tara, located in County Meath, Ireland, holds immense significance as a sacred and historical site in Irish folklore, mythology, and archaeology.

The Hill of Tara has been a central focal point in Irish history for millennia, serving as the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland. It is steeped in mythology, particularly associated with the Tuatha Dé Danann, ancient supernatural beings in Irish folklore. Tara was believed to be the inauguration site of the High Kings, where rituals and ceremonies were conducted to mark their ascension to power.

The Mound of the Hostages

This Neolithic passage tomb dates back to approximately 3,000 BCE, making it the oldest structure on the Hill of Tara. It is contemporary with passages tombs at the bend of the Boyne, namely Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth.

The Lia Fáil

The Lia Fáil also known as the Stone of Destiny is located on the Inauguration Mound (also known as the Forrad), the Lia Fáil is a standing stone believed to have magical properties. According to legend, the stone would roar when the rightful king touched it, affirming his legitimacy to rule.

Rath of the Synods

This circular earthwork enclosure is named as a meeting place for early Christian synods and assemblies during the medieval period however the monument is much older. It consists of two concentric banks and ditches, suggesting its significance as a ceremonial site.

Teach Chormaic

Teach Chormaic also known as Cormac's House is traditionally associated with Cormac mac Airt, a legendary High King of Ireland.

Ráith na Ríogh

Ráith na Ríogh also known as the Royal Enclosure is a large circular earthen bank and ditch, it is believed to have been the political and ceremonial heart of Tara during its peak as the seat of the High Kings. It contains several earthworks and structures, including the Mound of the Hostages and the Forrad.

Interview with Michael Slavin on the Hill of Tara


Michael Slavin author of The Book of Tara.

Boyne Valley Private Day Tour

Boyne Valley Tours Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and culture of the Boyne Valley with our full-day private tours. Visit Newgrange World Heritage site, explore the Hill of Slane, where Saint Patrick famously lit the Paschal fire. Discover the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of power for the High Kings of Ireland. Book Now