Brú Na Bóinne (Newgrange and Knowth) in Co. Meath

Brú Na Bóinne, which translates to "the Palace of the Boyne", is one of Irelands most important historical sites and one of the world's rare windows into prehistoric history. The visitor centre interprets the Neolithic monuments of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, built over 5,000 years ago, which makes them older than the Pyramids. The monuments' considerable importance to archaeology and Irish heritage have lead to their declaration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and they are a cornerstone of Irish history you can explore in the Ancient East.

The extensive exhibition at the visitor centre focuses on the ancient Celtic people, who have settled at the bend of the Boyne for over 6,000 years. Their way of life, homes, food, dress and weapons are all on display here.

The centre also includes a partial full-scale replica of the chamber of Newgrange as well as a full model of one of the smaller tombs at Knowth.

Newgrange consists of a single tomb and a cross-shaped chamber leading up to it. The roof, built of overlapping large stones and sealed by a capstone, is still waterproof after 5,000 years. A circle of standing stones can be seen outside, surrounding the tomb.

Knowth is made up of two passage tombs in a single, central mound, which are however not connected to each other, surrounded by 18 smaller ones. Some of these had to be reconstructed, as the were damaged over the years. In the early Christian ages, the site was transformed to a defended site, which lasted into the Middle Ages.

The passage tombs were discovered during a mining operation in 1699 and came under protection in 1882, which helped preserve them to the current day. The late 20^th century finally saw the land bought by the state and major excavation and preservation efforts were taken, leading to the sites becoming the fascinating attraction they are today.

All admission to Newgrange and Knowth is through the visitor centre, there is no direct access to these monuments. Visitors are brought from the visitor centre by shuttle bus to the monuments.

A little more recent history can be found at the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre just a 10 minute-drive away. The centre commemorates a large 17^th century battle from the Williamite War, one of the largest to take place on the island of Ireland.