Locations

Poulnabrone Dolmen, located in the heart of the Burren in County Clare, is a prehistoric portal tomb that stands as a testament to the ancient peoples who once inhabited this rugged landscape. Dating back to the Neolithic period, approximately 5,000 years ago, Poulnabrone Dolmen is one of Ireland’s most iconic archaeological sites and a significant remnant of its megalithic heritage.

The dolmen consists of a large limestone capstone balanced on two upright portal stones, creating a chamber beneath where Neolithic people buried their dead. This simple yet striking structure reflects the Neolithic community’s beliefs and rituals surrounding death and the afterlife, making Poulnabrone Dolmen a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.

Visitors to Poulnabrone Dolmen can explore its historical and archaeological significance through informative displays and interpretive panels at the site. These provide insights into the dolmen’s construction, its cultural context within the Neolithic period, and the archaeological excavations that have uncovered artifacts and human remains nearby.

The Burren itself, with its unique limestone pavement and diverse flora, serves as a picturesque backdrop to Poulnabrone Dolmen. The dolmen stands amidst this starkly beautiful landscape, surrounded by wildflowers, ferns, and rare alpine plants that thrive in the nutrient-poor soil.

A visit to Poulnabrone Dolmen offers more than just a glimpse into ancient history; it is a journey back in time to a period when Ireland’s first farmers and early settlers built monumental structures that continue to intrigue and inspire awe today.