There was a break in the rain here in Dublin - so I booked my self on a tour of New Grange. It was something I had wanted to do on the first go around here, but never had the time. You may remember from an earlier post, that I visited Avebury, England. The Avebury stone circles date back to 4000 BC, or so. New Grange pre dates that site by about 1000 years, making it the oldest site of it's kind in Europe - so the guide says. Only the Mayan pyramids predate New Grange. I sat next to a guy from, believe it or not, Portland Oregon. He and his cousin were here researching their family tree. He was a former priest (I was afraid to ask why he was former, so I didn't), so it was pretty interesting to hear his take on the Pagan lore, and how it was changed or adapted into Christianity, back in the day. Unfortunately my camera download didn't quite work, so I have limited pictures of the site. It was a very interesting tour - and an amazing feeling walking into the mound.
the entrance
The outside structure was rebuilt in the 70's (if I remember correctly) using the original stones. The most amazing dry stacking I've seen, so far. The pattern of the rocks is an interpretation, of course, because no one knows what it looked like that long ago. I wish I had a better picture. It was really cool.
dry stacked
There were lots of swallows playing in the field around New Grange. I just love watching them. They look like they are having so much fun! I have noticed them everywhere I've been, and had not been able to capture the moments on my camera until now. Lucky shot!
i'll fly away, oh lordy, i'll fly away..
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