Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
Under the watchful eye of Ben Bulben, explore the prehistoric realm of Carrowmore, where megalithic monuments stand as silent witnesses to ancient rituals and the legacy of Ireland's early inhabitants.
Dating back 6,000 years, County Sligo’s Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery is one of the largest and oldest megalithic sites in Europe, predating the Egyptian pyramids. The cemetery encompasses a vast landscape dotted with 35 passage tombs, dolmens, and stone circles, each holding secrets of the Neolithic people who constructed them. Among the notable monuments is Listoghil, a central tomb with a massive stone cairn, decorated with megalithic art and believed to have been a focal point for various rituals and ceremonies.
The majority of the cemetery is accessible by foot, including the nearby restored cottage, which holds a fascinating exhibition laden with rich stories, history and folklore relating to the archaeological site. Carrowmore is one of many important megalithic sites scattered across the island of Ireland such as Carrowkeel, Loughcrew and Brú na Bóinne, and is a special place where visitors can explore a prehistoric landscape, ponder the mysteries of the past and marvel at the enduring legacy of Ireland's Neolithic people.
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, County Sligo
Need to know
The site is around 8km (5 miles) from Knocknarea Hill – home to the breathtaking Queen Maeve Trail.
Facilities include fully guided tours, toilets, a car park and a small visitor centre. For more information about transport and accessibility, email carrowmoretomb@opw.ie or call 071 916 1534.
Tickets range from €5 to €13 and we recommend bringing a pair of hiking boots to combat the site's rough terrain.