Daniel Kirkpatrick

Historical Sites in Ireland: Explore the Ancient Landscape of Ireland

Ireland’s landscape is rich with ancient monuments—ringforts, passage tombs, royal sites, and crumbling stone settlements that echo the lives of those who walked here thousands of years ago. This page gathers together some of the most important historical sites in Ireland which are featured on my blog. Each of these posts combine archaeological evidence with mythology, exploring the history and significance of these amazing locations.

Below is a summary of the most significant sites. While many span multiple historical periods, they are ordered below in terms of the period of most significant activity and historical interest. Select the links to read on.

Neolithic (or earlier) 4500-2000BC

Map of ancient historical sites across Ireland
Map of ancient historical sites across Ireland – click to see the full resolution image.
  1. Giant’s Ring
  2. Mount Sandel
  3. Newgrange
  4. Giant’s Causeway

Bronze Age 2000-500BC

  1. Corrstown Village, Portrush
  2. Dunseverick Castle

Iron Age 500BC-400AD

  1. Emain Macha (Fort Navan)
  2. Hill of Uisneach
  3. Hill of Tara
  4. Rathcroghan
  5. Dun Aonghasa
  6. Rock of Cashel
  7. Dún Ailinne – Knockaulin

Early Medieval (or later) 400AD-

  1. Dunluce Castle
  2. Nendrum Monastery
  3. Ballyaghagan Cashel

Historical Site Posts

  • What is Navan Fort? The History of Emain Macha

    Explore Navan Fort (Emain Macha), the legendary seat of Ulster’s ancient kings, and uncover its fascinating Iron Age temple mound, rich archaeological heritage, and central role in Irish mythology.

  • What is Belfast’s Giant’s Ring? 5,000-Year-Old Neolithic Henge

    Discover Belfast’s Giant’s Ring – a 5,000-year-old Neolithic henge and passage tomb. Learn about its ancient origins (built around 2700 BC), archaeological discoveries (megalithic tombs, human remains), and why this mysterious site remains a highlight of Irish history and tourism.

  • Was the Hill of Tara Ireland’s Seat of High Kings?

    Once the seat of Ireland’s high kings, the Hill of Tara is steeped in legend, ceremony, and ancient power. From Neolithic tombs to tales of the Tuatha Dé Danann, explore why this sacred site remains one of Ireland’s most enduring symbols of sovereignty.

  • Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre Review: History, Exhibits & Tips

    Oldbridge House turns the 1690 Battle of the Boyne into an immersive day out: laser battlefield model, 17th-century weapons, riverside walks and a restored walled garden. Here’s a review of it’s history, exhibits, and visitor tips.

For the full list of other posts please select from the Categories below: