Natural formations in Ireland

Hill of Tara & Mitchelstown Caves both can be traced back to circa 500 BC which was supposedly the Iron Age. Both the places are of immense natural beauty. It is a visual treat to enjoy a spectacle of mesmerizing scenic vistas from these places.

Hill of Tara

Located in Navan in Meath, the Hill of Tara has been an important site since the Stone Age. Primarily an Iron-Age fortress dating back to circa 500 BC, this hill has been famous as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Tara became a political and religious centre in early Christian times though it declined in importance as Christianity spread in Ireland. You can enjoy some of the most spectacular views from atop the hill of these magnificent and isolated ruins. Remains of an older Neolithic passage-grave dating back to 1800 BC have also been unearthed here.

During the reign of the legendary Cormac MacAirt in the 3^rd century AD, Tara was at the height of its splendour. Lavish feasts were celebrated in the 250 m long Banqueting Hall here that was built because of him. His palace, along with Rath Riogh (Palace of Kings), is part of the Royal Enclosure, the largest site on the hilltop. In the centre of these remains stand the Lia Fail, the Stone of Destiny and ancient fertility symbol. Nearby is the mound of the hostages, a passage-grave dating to 1800 B.C.

Opening times during mid-September to mid-June are 10.00 am to 17.00 pm daily. From mid-June to mid-September, the timings are 09.30 am to 18.30 pm. On an average, the visit takes an hour and a half.

Mitchelstown Caves

These caves were discovered in mid 19^th century while quarrying limestone in South Tipperary. Situated near Mitchelstown, these caves are in the picturesque valley between the sandstone ranges of the Galtee Mountains to the North and the Knockmealdowns to the South.

The later owner of the farm on which the cave is situated, took a keen interest in the preservation of the cave. The cave has remained in the family ever since it was first owned in 1875. Major work was started in the cave in 1969 with electricity installed in 1972 that made it the first cave in Ireland to have an electric lighting system. This wonderfully lit cave reflecting magnificent hues is now open daily throughout the year and the temperature here remains constantly at 54 Fahrenheit.

The visiting hours are from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm daily. The admission for adults is £2.50, children £1.50 and family £6.

GOWEALTHY.COM © 2006

For comments: editor@gowealthy.com