The Mound of Hostages is an important national monument on the Hill of Tara. The mound was reconstructed in its present form following the archaeological excavations of the 1950s and 1960s. However, as you may be aware, in recent years the condition of the mound has shown signs of significant deterioration including slippage of earth around the entrance, visitor and livestock erosion of the ground surface around the entrance and vegetation growth, dampness and dislodgement of packing stones within the passage tomb.

The National Monuments Service of the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht along with the Office of Public Works are carrying out a conservation project to remedy the situation at the Mound of the Hostages.

A non-invasive geophysical survey of the Mound has already been completed. The first phase of work scheduled to commence on 7 November, 2011 involves test excavations that will be carried out by archaeological consultants retained by this Department and will be overseen by archaeologists from the National Monuments Service. The results of the test excavations will inform the conservation plan for the restoration and management of the Mound of the Hostages.

In the interest of health and safety, it is necessary to fence off the Mound for the duration of the works in order to facilitate the investigations. Unfortunately there will be restrictions on access to the Mound itself but access to the rest of the Hill of Tara will not be affected.

Brian K. Duffy
Chief Archaeologist
National Monuments Service
Custom House
Dublin 1.

Boyne Valley Private Day Tour

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