Newgrange - Winter Solstice

Newgrange is renowned for the way the rising sun lights its passage and chamber at the Winter Solstice. A specially designed opening above the entrance, known as the roof box, allows a narrow beam of sunlight to enter the mound on the mornings around the solstice. The light moves along the 19m (62ft) passage and reaches the inner chamber, widening as the sun climbs and filling the space with a warm golden glow.

Access to the chamber on the Solstice mornings is decided by a lottery that takes place at the end of September each year. All are welcome to gather outside the entrance to the Newgrange mound on each of the mornings from December 19th to December 23rd inclusive, sunrise is at 8.58am. Access via the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre or directly to the actual Newgrange monument.

Newgrange World Heritage site

Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a prehistoric monument dating back over 5,000 years, The passage tomb features a 19m (62ft) long passage leading to a central chamber which is adorned with megalithic art. Remarkably, the monument is constructed in such a way that sunlight penetrates its inner sanctum on the mornings around the winter solstice.

The Winter Solstice Phenomenon

The winter solstice, which falls around the 21st of December, marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year. At Newgrange, sunrise on the mornings around the solstice reveals a remarkable alignment. The first rays of the sun enter through a specially crafted opening above the doorway known as the roof box and begin to light the narrow passage. As the sun rises, the light moves steadily forward until the central chamber is filled with a golden glow. The illumination lasts for only about 17 minutes, yet it remains one of the most captivating experience in Ireland’s ancient calendar.

The Ingenious Design

The precision of Newgrange's construction is awe-inspiring. The builders' understanding of celestial movements is evident in the deliberate positioning of the entrance and passage. The alignment of the passage with the winter solstice sunrise speaks to a sophisticated knowledge of astronomy, as well as a deep connection to the natural rhythms of the Earth. The sheer engineering feat achieved without the aid of modern tools adds an extra layer of marvel to the site.

Spiritual Significance

The winter solstice sunrise alignment at Newgrange is more than a celestial event; it holds spiritual significance for many. The fleeting burst of sunlight symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, a theme woven into various cultures and belief systems. Visitors from all over the world gather at Newgrange to witness this ancient spectacle.

Newgrange Winter Solstice Archive

People of the Passage Tombs

Who were these people gathered on the hillside at Newgrange, the passage grave built 5,000 years ago in a crook of the River Boyne in Co Meath? Why did they build this colossal monument and what did they expect from it?   Read More...

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