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Archaeological site · Sligo, Sligo
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
One of the largest megalithic cemeteries in Ireland, with about 30 stone tombs visible among fields, some more than 5,500 years old, 4 km from Sligo and at the foot of Knocknarea.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
The Carrowmore megalithic cemetery lies on a plateau between Sligo and Knocknarea, about 4 km from the town. It is one of the largest and oldest groups of stone tombs in Ireland: there were once more than a hundred monuments there, and about 30 remain visible, scattered across fields and stone walls. Some have been dated to around 3700 BC, older than Newgrange.
Most of the tombs consist of a dolmen, a chamber of upright stones with a capstone, surrounded by a ring of stones. Archaeologists believe they were communal tombs of Neolithic farming communities, who cremated the dead and placed the remains in the chambers.
At the centre of the complex is Listoghil, the largest tomb, covered by a reconstructed cairn which can be entered. It is aligned with the tomb of Maeve atop Knocknarea, which dominates the landscape to the west, and with other mounds in the region.
The site is managed by the Irish state's heritage body, with a visitor centre in a farmhouse, open seasonally, with displays and guided tours. The tombs lie in fields with cattle and sheep; follow the marked paths.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours.
Best time
In season, when the visitor centre is open, generally from spring to autumn. Late in the afternoon, the low light on Knocknarea helps reveal the alignments. Check opening times.
How to get there
It is about 4 km southwest of Sligo, with signs from the road to Strandhill. There is parking at the visitor centre. There is no direct public transport.
Tip
Go inside Listoghil, the central tomb, and look toward Knocknarea on the horizon: the alignment with Maeve's tomb is intentional. Wear footwear suitable for wet fields.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
How old are the Carrowmore tombs?
Some have been dated to around 3700 BC—over 5,500 years old—older than Newgrange.
How many tombs are visible?
About 30 remain visible, out of more than a hundred that once existed.
Is the site open year-round?
The visitor centre operates in season, generally from spring to autumn. Check opening times on the website.