Castlestrange stone, Iron Age stone monument near Athleague, Ireland.
Castlestrange stone is a granite monument with an egg-like shape that features carved spiral patterns across its surface. The decorations cover much of the visible area and show the skill of those who created it.
The stone was made during the Iron Age between 300 BC and 100 AD and is one of only four Celtic monuments of this kind still standing in Ireland. It belongs to the artistic tradition of the La Tène culture, known for decorative spiral designs.
The spiral carvings show how Iron Age people expressed their artistic skill by working directly into stone. These patterns represent a form of decoration that mattered to the communities who made them.
The stone sits on the grounds of Castlestrange House and is open to visitors throughout the year at no cost. Since it stands on private property, it is wise to check local access arrangements before planning your visit.
The monument aligns with three other similar Celtic stones scattered across Ireland from north to south. This rare alignment suggests the ancient makers may have created deliberate connections between distant locations.
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