Mellifont
Monasterboice
Students will visit the extensive Neolithic (3300–3000 BC) passage tomb cemetery which includes the three largest artificial structures in Neolithic Europe (each 80 metres (262 ft) in diameter and containing about 200,000 tonnes of material). In addition to their use as burial places the tombs were the focus of an elaborate ‘Cult of the Ancestors’. Long after its prehistoric abandonment the Knowth mound was fortified and became the residence of the kings of North Brega, one of the most powerful new families of the Uí Neill (O Neill) dynasty descended from the legendary founder Niall Noígiallach (‘Niall of the Nine Hostages’). The ruins at the monastic site at Monasterboice will also be explored including its high cross, one of the best preserved in Ireland. The nearby ruins of the impressive Cistercian Abbey at Mellifont will also be visited.
There are a limited number of spaces available; to reserve a place, please contact Mairéad in Room 20, Arts Block (irish.heritagecentre@mu.ie/ 01 7083666).