Boleycarrigeen Stone Circle
Location: Boleycarrigeen, Co. Wicklow
Classification: Stone Circle
SMR Code: WI027-039----
Rating:
Known locally as the 'Griddle Stones' this stone circle is situated in forestry land on a low ridge with extensive views. The circle is 13.5m in diameter and defined by eleven evenly spaced upright stones. The entrance is at the South-Southwest. The stones appear to rise in height from the entrance (Height 1.3m) to the tallest stones (Height 1.88m) at the North-Northeast. The circle is on the inner edge of an earthen bank and is thought to be aligned with the Winter Solstice sunrise.
During the Bronze Age (2500BC-500BC) the small clan-based social structures of the Neolithic period evolved into larger, more organised and structured societies. The most significant monuments of this age are stone circles which, although mainly associated with the Bronze Age, began to be built during the preceding Late Stone Age. Most authorities agree that they were a form of astronomical observatory with ritual or religious functions.
On a hill on the opposite side of the valley to the Stone Circle, there are huge ground markings that resemble giant figures. Boleycarrigeen Stone Circle is known locally as the 'Griddle Stones' and legend has it that these massive hill figures are the mythical hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill and his wife, who came here to cook their meals.
Description
Known locally as the 'Griddle Stones' this stone circle is situated in forestry land on a low ridge with extensive views. The circle is 13.5m in diameter and defined by eleven evenly spaced upright stones. The entrance is at the South-Southwest. The stones appear to rise in height from the entrance (Height 1.3m) to the tallest stones (Height 1.88m) at the North-Northeast. The circle is on the inner edge of an earthen bank and is thought to be aligned with the Winter Solstice sunrise.
History
During the Bronze Age (2500BC-500BC) the small clan-based social structures of the Neolithic period evolved into larger, more organised and structured societies. The most significant monuments of this age are stone circles which, although mainly associated with the Bronze Age, began to be built during the preceding Late Stone Age. Most authorities agree that they were a form of astronomical observatory with ritual or religious functions.
Folklore
On a hill on the opposite side of the valley to the Stone Circle, there are huge ground markings that resemble giant figures. Boleycarrigeen Stone Circle is known locally as the 'Griddle Stones' and legend has it that these massive hill figures are the mythical hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill and his wife, who came here to cook their meals.
Gallery
Accessibility Rating: Moderate
There are no facilities at this site.
Accessibility
Accessibility Class: Moderate
Facilities
There are no facilities at this site.
Map
Directions
Weather
Sunrise/Sunset
Sunrise: 05:30
Sunset: 21:17
Directions
Weather
Sunrise/Sunset
Sunrise: 05:30
Sunset: 21:17
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