Ireland is in a state of shock: an eminent archaeological site has been vandalized by people with malicious intent… This is the Loughcrew Cairns site at Oldcastle in County Meath, a prehistoric site of great importance. The vandals are said to have carved their names on stones over 5,200 years old: an unspeakable act, which prompted the Irish government to secure the site.
Until now, the major archaeological sites have not required close surveillance: travelers and Irish people alike have shown respect for the monuments…
But that was without counting on a group of vandals, who apparently took pleasure in putting “their mark” on Loughcrew Cairns. The latter are said to have desecrated the site by adding numerous “wild engravings” on the stones of various corridor tombs.
The wild engravings at Loughcrew
The site comprises more than 60 tombs spread over 3 hills. There are numerous stone circles and cairns.
Very popular with visitors, the site was previously open to the public. But recent acts of vandalism could well change all that.
An investigation has been launched to find the perpetrators, and a vast awareness campaign will be launched to encourage the public and travellers to preserve Ireland’s historic sites.
The Irish Office of Public Works (OPW) and the National Monuments Service (NMS) said they were “deeply dismayed” by the ransacking of the 5,200-year-old site.
The two companies are currently looking for ways to remove the engravings without damaging the original stones.
Minister Patrick O’Donovan, TD, Minister of State for the Office of Public Works, condemned the senseless vandalism:
Loughcrew Cairns is part of our cultural heritage and I’m shocked that some of the ancient carved stones have been damaged by savage engraving. I appeal to anyone with information about this incident to contact the local Gardaí to help find the culprit. said Minister Patrick O’Donovan, TD, Minister responsible for the Office of Public Works.
With our colleagues at the National Monuments Service, we are preparing a campaign for June to raise awareness of the importance and vulnerability of our beautiful monuments, which is vital to preserving them for future generations.
In any case, security will be patrolling Loughcrew every day from now on. A necessary measure, which may have to be extended to all of Ireland’s major archaeological sites…
More news
