Don’t miss it! The Winter Solstice at Newgrange in Ireland, an iconic and mystical event, will be accessible to a global audience thanks to a live broadcast organized by the Office of Public Works (OPW). This year, the captivating phenomenon of the winter solstice can be experienced online, enabling everyone, wherever they are in the world, to witness the magic of this moment.
The winter solstice, on December 21, marks the shortest day of the year. At Newgrange, a Neolithic UNESCO heritage site, a unique solar alignment occurs on this date. For 17 minutes at sunrise, sunlight streams directly into the burial chamber of this 5,000-year-old monument, through a small opening above the entrance.
Live broadcasting is a fascinating opportunity, especially as the number of places to attend this event in person is extremely limited and determined by a lottery system. In 2020 and 2021, the coronavirus pandemic prompted OPW to set up this live broadcast, enabling many people to experience this spectacular event that would otherwise be inaccessible to them.
The winter solstice in Newgrange has worldwide significance. Rediscovered in 1967 by Professor Michael J. O’Kelly, Newgrange’s solar alignment is now recognized as intentional, demonstrating the ingenuity of ancient architects. This phenomenon continues to generate international fascination, attracting spectators from all over the world.
For those interested in this unique experience, the live broadcast will be available on the Irish government website and on Ireland’s Ancient East YouTube channel. We recommend subscribing to the channel in advance to receive notification and log on at the right time.
This event offers not only a window into Ireland’s distant past, but also an opportunity to reflect on the intersection between nature, history and spirituality. It’s a celebration that transcends borders and eras, uniting people in a moment of contemplation and natural beauty.
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