Queen Maeve's Cairn, Strandhill, Ireland

Knocknarea is a large prominent hill west of Sligo town in Ireland, with a height of 327 metres. On the summit of Knocknarea is a large cairn about 55 metres wide and 10 metres high, making it the largest cairn in Ireland outside Brú na Bóinne in Meath. Although it has not been excavated by archaeologists, it has many features of a classic passage tomb.

The cairn is flat-topped and several kerbstones can be seen on the northern side. It is believed to date to around 3000 BCE, during the Neolithic (New Stone Age). It is known in Irish as Miosgán Meadhbha (Meadhbh's heap), and in English as Maeve's Cairn or Maeve's Tomb. Meadhbh is a queen of Connacht in Irish mythology, who is believed to have originally been a goddess.

The ancient cairn is a protected National Monument. In recent years, archaeologists have warned that it is being eroded by hikers climbing on it and moving or removing stones. The large number of climbers is leaving scars on the cairn and may be destabilizing the tomb inside. Irish folklore holds that it is bad luck to damage or disrespect such tombs and that doing so could bring a curse.

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Prehistoric and archaeological sites in Ireland

User Reviews

Cormac Kilty (2 years ago)
Amazing views! There's two climbs, one is very doable and takes about 45 mins, just a straight walk up. The other is longer and goes through the forest. That one is likely a bit more challenging and would take closer to 1.5-2 hours.

Kevin Stuart Marshall (2 years ago)
Its long steepish climb but its well worth the effort. I can see why Maeve chose this to be her last resting place - the views are wide ranging and beautiful. Rest in peace Maeve.

Amanda Stephenson (2 years ago)
Stunning views on the walk up to the cairn. We took the path opposite the Rugby club car park (you can park there for 2 euros). Easy trail to follow and dog friendly. The cairn is massive and well worth the walk. Remember to take a stone to add to the tomb. Walk was busy when we went so go early or late for a more tranquil experience.

Sean Meehan (2 years ago)
There are great options for different hikes reaching the top. Either close to Strandhill (with parking at the Rugby Club) or on the opposite side at the traditional trail. Best visited on a clear day to fully admire the Dartry Mountains, Ox Mountains and ocean views. For me, one of the iconic views from anywhere on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way. Well worth combining with a visit to nearby Carrowmore megalithic site to get the full context of this ancient structure and landscape.

Анастасія Антонець (2 years ago)
Pure pleasure? unforgettable place. Steps lead to the top and there are benches on the halts. Great place for a picnic and a great weekend getaway. And at the top you can see Sligo and the surrounding area. walking route about an hour

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