Cairn T has been closed to the public since October 2018.
There is currently no access to the interior of the chamber on equinox mornings.
Visitors may still gather outside the cairn to watch the sunrise.
The equinox illumination of Loughcrew Cairn T is a remarkable phenomenon where sunlight aligns
with the passage and chamber of the ancient megalithic structure during the equinox.
Specifically designed to capture this celestial event, Cairn T at Loughcrew becomes
illuminated as the sun rises, casting light down the passage and into the chamber.
At Loughcrew Cairn T the rising sun on the mornings around the equinox illuminates the passage and chamber.
The precision in the construction of Cairn T allows for this captivating play
of light and shadow during the equinox, creating a stunning spectacle that underscores
the ancient builders' astronomical knowledge and architectural expertise.
The event serves as a testament to the alignment of ancient structures
with celestial events, possibly having symbolic or ritualistic significance for the people who constructed and used these monuments.
The people who made the effort to get up early were rewarded by a glorious sunrise that illuminated the backstone in Cairn T.
The OPW staff allowed groups of 5 or 6 to enter Cairn T to experience the illumination of the chamber.
Sunbeam on the backstone of the chamber inside Cairn T - Photo by Ken Williams.
Loughcrew Video - Spring Equinox 2005
The progress of the sunbeam on the backstone inside Cairn T at Loughcrew was video recorded at sunrise on the morning of March 23rd 2005. The 50 minute recording is compressed to 1 minute 46 seconds.
We cannot recommend Michael highly enough. Our day with him was educational and thought provoking, and also humbling and magical. His knowledge of ancient Irish history was remarkable.
Read the full TripAdvisor review
Spend a day immersed in Ireland's prehistoric landscape, with more time to appreciate ancient passage tombs, megalithic art, and quieter archaeological sites.
Following official visits to Newgrange and Knowth, the day continues to monuments such as
Dowth and Fourknocks.
A custom private tour can also include the cairns at Loughcrew.
Price €675 for up to six guests, plus booking fees.
At Loughcrew Cairn T the rising sun on the mornings around the equinox illuminates the passage and chamber.
The people who made the effort to get up early were rewarded by a glorious sunrise that illuminated the backstone in Cairn T.
The OPW staff allowed groups of 5 or 6 to enter Cairn T to experience the illumination of the chamber.
Sunbeam on the backstone of the chamber inside Cairn T - Photo by Ken Williams.
Equinox sunlight on the backstone in Cairn T.
