Ken Williams captured this amazing photo featuring Michael Fox touching the light beam within the ancient structure. Heavy snowfall had created challenging driving conditions, and Michael received a message from a contact at the Brú na Bóinne Visitors Centre, informing him that some Solstice Lottery winners could not travel due to road conditions. Deciding to proceed to Newgrange for the sunrise on December 22nd, he anticipated a good chance of gaining access to the chamber.

Residing approximately 20 km from Newgrange, he navigated through snow-covered roads and successfully reached Newgrange safely. Upon arrival, he was greeted by a pristine, white landscape and, more importantly, a clear sky. As expected, some Solstice Lottery winners did not make it, affording him the opportunity to join the group entering the chamber to await the sunrise. They were rewarded with a spectacular dawn that bathed the chamber in golden light.

As the sunbeam began its retreat down the passage, Michael conceived the idea of asking Ken Williams to capture a photo of his hand touching the light beam. For Michael, the resulting image serves as a cherished memory of that remarkable morning.

Newgrange Winter Solstice Archive

Setting Sun Alignments

The Winter Solstice Setting Sun illuminates the chamber at the nearby Dowth mound and at the cairn on Slieve Gullion in Co. Armagh.

Boyne Valley Private Day Tour

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