Brownshill Dolmen

We were on the way to the Brownshill Dolmen near Carlow, when we discovered this beautiful one in the middle of a pasture.

Shortly after we reached the Brownshill Dolmen, where we could see its majestic capstone already from the parking.

There are many dolmens scattered around Ireland, but this one is truly exceptional, not least because of its capstone, which weighs an estimated 150 tons and is probably the heaviest in Europe.

Although the dolmen was not excavated, it is believed that it was built between 4000 and 3000 BC.  The burial chamber is flanked by two large upright stones that support the chamber’s granite capstone. The stone in the middle is the gate stone, which blocks the entrance.

We are now heading to Kilkenny, a lovely city to explore, we were told. More soon!

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