Magh Adhair, Archaeological inauguration site near Quin, Ireland
Magh Adhair is an archaeological monument near Quin that features a central mound with a flat top, surrounded by a deep ditch and raised outer bank. The site also contains a standing stone and other carved stones scattered across the ground.
This site served as the coronation ground for leaders of the Dal gCas people in ancient times, and its importance was marked through solemn ceremonies held there. In the 10th century, an invading force destroyed a sacred tree at the location, which demonstrates how highly it was valued.
This place held deep meaning for the Dal gCas people, who gathered here to mark the appointment of their leaders through ritual and ceremony. Such gatherings reinforced community bonds and expressed their connection to the territory.
The location sits in open countryside northeast of Quin and is straightforward to visit on foot. The terrain is flat and accessible, making it easy to walk around and observe all the stones and mound features from different angles.
Unlike many other Irish ceremonial sites, this mound sits in flat land rather than atop a hill, which sets it apart from other royal burial and coronation grounds of its era. This unusual placement hints at how different regions in Ireland chose to mark their most important locations.
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