Every year, crowds flock to the prehistoric tomb at Newgrange to witness a rare and exceptional phenomenon: the winter solstice. On this occasion, the light of dawn penetrates directly into the archaeological site, flooding the corridor and burial chamber… A show worth its weight in gold, which once again dazzled the audience, even if the sun wasn’t exactly shining…
The Office of Public Works (OPW) captured the phenomenon on film. As soon as dawn breaks, the light hits the entrance to the Newgrange corridor, then the burial chamber at the other end of the cairn. A magnificent, breathtaking show over 3 days (Sunday to Tuesday).
The OPW’s video recordings allowed thousands of people to admire the narrow beam of light entering the Newgrange gate and gradually illuminating the burial chamber. Unfortunately for the spectators, there was plenty of light on Monday, but the sun, too discreet due to cloudy weather conditions, was unable to illuminate the burial chamber.
But rest assured: the phenomenon will be broadcast live again from inside the chamber this Tuesday at 8:45 GMT. You can view the various Newgrange winter solstice videos here on YouTube.
Newgrange (Co. Meath) is a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every year, it attracts thousands of tourists and travellers to admire its colossal architecture. Considered a veritable historical treasure trove, it ranks alongside Stonehenge as one of the world’s greatest prehistoric remains.
Usually, a bunch of Irish people are selected by lottery to attend the winter solstice from inside the site. But the current coronavirus pandemic has unfortunately prevented this tradition.
Good Morning and Happy Solstice to you all. This morning the weather is not as favourable as yesterday. That will not dampen our spirits. We will be streaming live at 08.45 UTC https://t.co/Kxoa6ERxOu pic.twitter.com/Rjoo5fv88p
— Brú na Bóinne – Newgrange and Knowth (@brunaboinneOPW) December 21, 2020
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