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Brownshill Dolmen: A Neolithic Giant

Marvel at Europe's largest dolmen capstone, a relic of Neolithic Ireland near Carlow town. Free entry, easy access, and a journey back in time.

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The Brownshill Dolmen, a megalithic portal tomb dating back to 3000 BC, is located just outside Carlow town. Its most striking feature is the massive capstone, estimated to weigh over 100 tonnes, the largest of its kind in Europe. This ancient structure offers a glimpse into Ireland's prehistoric past.

A brief summary to Brownshill Portal Tomb (Dolmen)

  • Hackettstown, Hacketstown Rd, Carlow, Kernanstown, IE
  • Visit website
  • 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 comfortable shoes as the path to the dolmen from the car park is a short walk across a field.
  • Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy the serene landscape surrounding the dolmen.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Carlow town, take the R726 (Hacketstown Road) east for approximately 3 km. The Brownshill Dolmen is signposted off the main road to the right. There is a small, free car park available on the right-hand side of the road. From the car park, a short, accessible path leads to the dolmen.

  • Public Transport

    From Carlow town, Bus Éireann operates route CW1 that stops near Brownshill Dolmen. Alight at the 'Tinteán Coille' stop on the Hacketstown Road. From there, it is a short walk to the dolmen. Bus fare is approximately €3-€6. Check the Bus Éireann website for the most up-to-date schedule.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Carlow town to Brownshill Dolmen takes approximately 4 minutes and costs around €9-€11. Taxi services are available in Carlow town.

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Discover more about Brownshill Portal Tomb (Dolmen)

Located 3km east of Carlow town, the Brownshill Dolmen is one of Ireland's most impressive prehistoric monuments. This portal tomb, also known as Kernanstown Cromlech, dates back approximately 4,900 to 5,500 years. The dolmen consists of a massive granite capstone resting on two portal stones, a door stone, and a flat slab. The capstone measures about 4.7m x 6.1m x 2m and is estimated to weigh between 100 and 150 tonnes, making it the largest in Europe. How Neolithic people managed to erect such a structure remains a mystery, with theories suggesting the use of ramps, levers, and possibly even the capstone already being in place with the earth excavated around it. Archaeologists believe the dolmen was a ceremonial site, possibly used for religious rites, including cremation or burial. Similar sites in Ireland have revealed artifacts like pottery, flint tools, bone pins, and beads, indicating complex burial practices. The Brownshill Dolmen is a testament to the ingenuity and social structures of its builders. Today, the Brownshill Dolmen stands in a field, a tangible link to Ireland's ancient past, inviting contemplation and wonder.

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