Ballina Dolmen (also known as Dolmen of the Four Maols) is a megalithic site in County Mayo, Ireland. Dating from the Neolithic period, it lies to the west of the town of Ballina, and is one of the local attractions. A nice dolmen, for lovers of old stones!
The Ballina dolmen measures 2.75 metres by 2.5 metres. The main table (above) rests on 3 stones which serve as uprights.
According to archaeologists, a fourth stone, located close to the dolmen, once supported the rest of the construction. It may have been moved manually afterwards, or simply been the victim of a partial collapse of the structure.
Access to the dolmen is free, and possible at any time of day. Rather interesting for its size, it would have been used as a tomb in the Neolithic period, then as a ritual site during the Celtic period.
Take care when approaching it: avoid touching the stones, which are becoming increasingly fragile due to the touristy nature of the area!
Take a look around: the Ballina Dolmen offers a lovely view of the Irish countryside!
all day long