Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery

Carrowkeel Megalithic Cemetery is a group of fourteen stone passage graves built on limestone ridges overlooking Lough Arrow. The graves feature carefully shaped chambers made from limestone blocks and sit at elevations between 240 and 360 meters above sea level.

This burial site dates from the Neolithic period around 3500 BC, making it one of Ireland's oldest structures. Archaeological excavations in 1911 uncovered the remains of thirty-two individuals along with bone pins and stone beads.

The tombs show how early farming communities buried their dead and what craft skills they had mastered. Visitors can still see the carefully shaped chambers today and understand how these people lived thousands of years ago.

The site sits on a hillside and requires sturdy footwear for uneven grass and dirt paths. Visitors should prepare for changing weather and allow plenty of time to explore all fourteen graves at a comfortable pace.

Cairn G, one of the larger graves, has a small opening in its roof that allows sunlight to enter the inner chamber during the summer solstice. This rare feature demonstrates the astronomical knowledge and building precision of that ancient community.

Location: County Sligo

Inception: 5 Millenium BCE

GPS coordinates: 54.05333,-8.37778

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:40