If you’re going to the LISA Symposium in Dublin & want to see the oldest evidence of human astronomical knowledge in Europe, you should get tix asap (depending on how long you’re there, some dates are already sold out!). But if you can, I highly recommend visiting Newgrange (older than Stonehenge!)
The passage tomb is a megalithic structure that is roughly 5000 years old, with a window (roof box) above the door aligned to admit the light of the rising sun on the morning of the winter solstice. The light shines down the passage and illuminates the central chamber, which houses 3 niches that
Contained the cremated remains of several individuals. The large stones that line the passage have elaborate designs carved into them, as do many of the stones lining the exterior kerb. As an astronomer, I have been impressed by the structure since I first learned of it.
As a homeowner, however…
Right?
Brú na Bóinne Neolithic contractors: Well ma’am, we know you basically only get good light for a few minutes one day a year but roof maintenance is ‘mow once a year’ (to prevent trees putting down roots) and we’ll give you a 5000yr guarantee
