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Megalithic Tomb, Keel East

Discover ancient history at the Megalithic Tomb in Keel East, Achill Island, with stunning views of the Irish coast and Slievemore mountain.

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Explore the ancient Keel East Court Tomb on Achill Island, County Mayo, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Ireland's Neolithic past. This megalithic monument, dating back thousands of years, features a well-preserved court and chamber, inviting visitors to connect with history amidst a breathtaking landscape.

A brief summary to Megalithic Tomb

  • Slievemore Rd, Keel East, Co. Mayo, IE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the tomb can be steep and uneven.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Atlantic coast and surrounding landscape.
  • Visit the nearby deserted village of Slievemore to learn about 19th and 20th-century rural Irish life.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as Achill Island can experience strong winds and rain.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Achill Sound, head west on the R319 towards Keel. Continue for approximately 6.5 km (10 minutes). In Keel, turn left onto Slievemore Road (R319) and continue for about 3 km. Look for a small parking area on the right. The tomb is a short walk from the parking area. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take Bus Éireann route 450 from Achill Sound to Keel. The bus departs from Radharc Na Mara every four hours. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs €5-€8. From Keel, it is approximately a 30-minute walk (2.5 km) along Slievemore Road to the Megalithic Tomb. Alternatively, a local taxi from Keel to the tomb will cost approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Megalithic Tomb

The Megalithic Tomb at Keel East, also known as Keel East Court Tomb, is situated on the lower slopes of Slievemore mountain on Achill Island in County Mayo. This historical landmark provides a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's Neolithic period. The tomb is aligned in a north-south direction, with its court opening facing the mountain, offering scenic views that stretch down to the cliffs of Minaun and the Atlantic Ocean. Constructed around 3500 BCE, the tomb features a roughly circular court leading to a gallery with multiple chambers. While some stones have been displaced over time, the rear chamber retains its large roof stone, giving the structure a recognizable shape. The tomb's design includes well-matched jambs that lead into the gallery, which may have originally consisted of two or three chambers. Local folklore adds an intriguing layer to the site's history. One tale recounts a miller who took a stone from the tomb to use as a millstone, only to discard it when it proved unsuitable. Legend has it that the miller died within a year of this act. The surrounding area also contains other megalithic monuments, adding to the historical richness of the landscape. Located near the deserted village of Slievemore, the Keel East Court Tomb offers a unique opportunity to explore both a prehistoric monument and the remains of a more recent community. The village, inhabited until the mid-20th century, provides a stark reminder of life in rural Ireland and the impact of famine and emigration.

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